Why did Georgia leave the CIS?
The 2008 decision and final exit in 2009.
Short answer
Georgia decided to leave the Commonwealth of Independent States in August 2008, after the war with Russia, and parliament voted unanimously to withdraw. Under CIS rules the exit took effect a year later, on 18 August 2009. Georgian authorities said membership of an organisation led by Russia had become impossible after the war and Russia's recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
Why
- Georgia joined the CIS in 1993, later than other former Soviet republics.
- Leaving the CIS did not end visa-free entry to Georgia for Russian citizens.
- Georgia kept some agreements with former Soviet republics on a bilateral basis.
Details
Georgia also cut diplomatic ties with Russia in 2008, and Switzerland represents each side's interests. Russian citizens can nonetheless enter Georgia visa-free.
Tip
If the topic interests you, rely on official documents and Foreign Ministry statements rather than social media retellings.
Common misconception
Georgia is still a CIS member.
What actually happens
Georgia left the CIS in 2009.
People also ask
- When did Georgia leave the CIS?
Sources
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of GeorgiaChecked at:
This answer describes events and official positions and makes no political assessment.
Related questions
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