Georgia approves contentious 'foreign agents' legislation amidst domestic backlash
Despite facing strong opposition within the country and receiving cautionary messages from the European Union, Georgia's Parliament has approved a controversial 'foreign agents' bill. This decision has sparked debate and raised concerns about the country's standing in the international community.
Georgia's parliament has recently approved a contentious "foreign agents" bill, despite facing strong opposition within the country and warnings from the European Union about the potential impact on Georgia's membership in the bloc.
Under the new legislation, organizations that receive over 20% of their funding from foreign sources will be required to register as "agents of foreign influence" or risk facing significant fines. Critics of the bill argue that it bears resemblance to laws in Russia, which have been utilized by the Kremlin to suppress opposition and civil society.
Many Georgians worry that their foreign agents bill will be implemented similarly in their country. Tbilisi, the capital, has been disrupted by nightly protests for approximately one month.
The ruling party, Georgian Dream, which spearheaded the enactment of the law, has responded to backlash by stating that the measure will enhance transparency and uphold national sovereignty.
Georgia's parliament has 10 days to send the bill to President Salome Zourabichvili, who has promised to veto it. Zourabichvili has two weeks to veto the bill, but parliament can overturn her decision with a simple majority.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for more details.
Editor's P/S:
The recent passage of the "foreign agents" bill in Georgia has raised concerns about the potential erosion of civil liberties and Georgia's aspirations to join the European Union. Critics fear that the law, which requires organizations with significant foreign funding to register as "agents of foreign influence," could be used to target opposition groups and stifle dissent. This is a worrying development that undermines Georgia's democratic credentials and threatens the rule of law.
It is crucial for the Georgian government to reconsider the implementation of this law and to engage in meaningful dialogue with civil society and international partners to address concerns about its potential impact. Georgia should strive to uphold its democratic principles and commitment to transparency while safeguarding the rights of its citizens to freely express their views and participate in the political process.
