Number: RS22794
Title: Georgia's January 2008 Presidential Election: Outcome and Implications
Authors: Jim Nichol, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: This report discusses the campaign and results of Georgia's January 5, 2008, presidential election and implications for Russia and U.S. interests. The election took place after the sitting president, Mikheil Saakashvili, suddenly resigned in the face of domestic and international criticism over his crackdown on political dissidents. Many observers viewed Saakashvili's re-election as marking some democratization progress, but some raised concerns that political instability might endure and that Georgia's ties with NATO might suffer.
Pages: 6
Date: January 25, 2008