**Unity of Patriots of Georgia**
**Definition:**
The Unity of Patriots of Georgia is a political party in Georgia known for its nationalist and conservative positions. It has played a role in the country’s political landscape, advocating for traditional values, national sovereignty, and a cautious approach to foreign relations.
—
# Unity of Patriots of Georgia
The Unity of Patriots of Georgia (Georgian: საქართველოს პატრიოტთა ერთობა, Sakartvelos Patriota Ertoba) is a political party in Georgia that espouses nationalist and conservative ideologies. Established in the mid-2010s, the party has positioned itself as a defender of Georgian sovereignty, cultural identity, and traditional values. It has been active in parliamentary politics and has participated in various coalitions and electoral contests, influencing the discourse on national security, foreign policy, and social issues.
## History
### Formation and Early Years
The Unity of Patriots of Georgia was founded in 2015 as a coalition of several smaller nationalist and conservative groups. The party emerged in response to growing concerns among certain segments of the Georgian population about the country’s political direction, particularly regarding relations with Russia, the European Union, and NATO. The founders sought to create a political platform that emphasized patriotism, national unity, and the preservation of Georgian cultural heritage.
### Political Context
Georgia’s post-Soviet political environment has been marked by a struggle between pro-Western and pro-Russian orientations. The Unity of Patriots of Georgia positioned itself as a nationalist alternative to the dominant parties, advocating for a balanced foreign policy that prioritized Georgian interests without fully aligning with Western institutions. The party’s rhetoric often emphasized the importance of sovereignty and the dangers of external influence.
### Electoral Participation
The party first gained parliamentary representation in the 2016 parliamentary elections as part of a coalition. It continued to participate in subsequent elections, sometimes independently and sometimes in alliance with other parties. Its electoral base has primarily consisted of voters in rural areas and among those who favor conservative social policies and a strong national identity.
## Ideology and Political Positions
### Nationalism and Patriotism
At the core of the Unity of Patriots of Georgia’s ideology is a strong sense of nationalism. The party promotes the idea of protecting Georgian sovereignty and territorial integrity, particularly in light of the ongoing conflicts in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. It emphasizes the importance of national pride, the Georgian language, and cultural traditions.
### Foreign Policy
The party advocates for a pragmatic foreign policy that balances relations with both Western countries and Russia. While it supports Georgia’s independence and territorial claims, it is cautious about rapid integration into Western military and political structures such as NATO. The Unity of Patriots of Georgia calls for dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts, but it also stresses the need for a strong defense capability.
### Social and Cultural Issues
The Unity of Patriots of Georgia holds conservative views on social issues. It supports traditional family values and has expressed opposition to liberal social policies, including those related to LGBTQ+ rights. The party often aligns itself with the Georgian Orthodox Church and promotes the role of religion in public life.
### Economic Policy
Economically, the party advocates for policies that support local businesses and agriculture, emphasizing self-sufficiency and protection of Georgian industries. It favors a mixed economy with state involvement in strategic sectors and supports social programs aimed at reducing poverty and inequality.
## Organizational Structure
The Unity of Patriots of Georgia is led by a chairman and a central committee responsible for policy decisions and party administration. It maintains regional branches throughout Georgia to mobilize support and coordinate activities. The party also organizes youth and women’s wings to engage specific demographic groups.
## Role in Georgian Politics
### Parliamentary Activity
Since gaining parliamentary seats, the Unity of Patriots of Georgia has been active in legislative debates, particularly on issues related to national security, foreign policy, and cultural preservation. The party has proposed legislation aimed at strengthening the military, protecting the Georgian language, and promoting traditional values.
### Coalitions and Alliances
The party has participated in various political coalitions, sometimes aligning with other opposition groups to challenge the ruling parties. These alliances have been tactical, aimed at increasing parliamentary influence and advancing shared goals related to national sovereignty and conservative social policies.
### Public Perception and Criticism
The Unity of Patriots of Georgia has been both supported and criticized within Georgian society. Supporters praise the party for defending national interests and cultural identity. Critics, however, accuse it of fostering nationalist rhetoric that may exacerbate ethnic tensions and hinder Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration. The party’s conservative stance on social issues has also been a point of contention.
## Challenges and Future Prospects
The Unity of Patriots of Georgia faces challenges common to smaller nationalist parties, including limited electoral support and competition from larger political forces. Its cautious approach to foreign policy and conservative social agenda appeal to a specific segment of the electorate but may limit broader appeal. The party’s future influence will depend on its ability to adapt to changing political dynamics and expand its base.
## Conclusion
The Unity of Patriots of Georgia represents a significant strand of nationalist and conservative thought within Georgian politics. Its emphasis on sovereignty, cultural preservation, and traditional values reflects ongoing debates about Georgia’s identity and future direction. While it remains a relatively minor party in terms of electoral strength, its role in shaping political discourse and advocating for patriotism continues to be notable.
—
**Meta Description:**
The Unity of Patriots of Georgia is a nationalist and conservative political party advocating for Georgian sovereignty, traditional values, and a balanced foreign policy. It plays a role in the country’s political landscape through parliamentary participation and coalition-building.