Euro-optimism Intertwined with Pragmatism: Elite and Popular Discourses on Georgia’s Europeanization through Q Methodology

Abstract

Abstract The article discusses Georgian political and intellectual elites’ and citizens’ discourses on the country’s Europeanization in the context of pragmatic and identity considerations. The research is based on Q methodology that, in contrast to its traditional use, has been integrated into in-depth interviews with political and intellectual elites and focus group discussions with citizens. Q analysis reveals that both elites and citizens are characterized by Euro-optimistic views perceiving Georgia’s Europeanization in light of pragmatic considerations. The major pragmatic factors are related to the improved protection of human rights and the safeguarding of the country’s security. Unlike previous studies, the current research shows that, at least at the rhetorical level, Georgia’s Europeanization is not perceived as a threat to the national identity.