On May 14, the legislative body of Georgia greenlighted the debated “foreign agents” bill at its final hurdle, as covered by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL).
The statute necessitates the designation of organizations receiving overseas funds as “foreign agents,” which critics argue could be used by the government to quash opposition forces and non-governmental organizations.
Emulating stringent regulations in Russia aimed at dissenters to the Kremlin, the law has also been derogatorily referred to as the “Russian law” by detractors.
The bill’s journey through the legislature has sparked mass demonstrations throughout Georgia along with disapproval from both the European Union and the United States.
The legislation secured the backing of 84 members of parliament, amidst 30 opposing it.
Georgia’s president who is in favor of Western integration, Salome Zourabichvili, has indicated her intention to veto the legislation. The president is endowed with the constitutional authority to either endorse or return the bill to parliament within a ten-day span.
However, the Georgian Dream party, which championed the bill, has sufficient parliamentary majority to overrule a veto, enabling the assembly’s chair to sign it into law.
Simultaneous with the legislative approval, large gatherings continue to be held outside the parliamentary arena.
Explainer: The broader context of ongoing Georgian protests
These protests, sparked by the foreign agents legislation, reflect wider public disillusionment with the government and the course it’s leading the nation on.
FAQs about Georgia’s ‘Foreign Agents’ Bill
- What does the “foreign agents” bill entail?
The bill mandates organizations that get funding internationally to register as “foreign agents,” which thereupon subjects them to additional scrutiny and bureaucratic requirements.
- Why are there protests in Georgia against this bill?
Many perceive the bill as a means for the government to suppress dissent and control civil society groups, similar to the effects of a comparable law in Russia.
- How has the international community reacted to the passage of this bill?
The introduction and passage of the law have been met with disapproval from the EU and the US, who see it as a potential obstacle to democratic processes and freedom of expression.
- Does the president of Georgia support this legislation?
No, President Salome Zourabichvili has expressed her opposition and has threatened to veto the bill.
- Is it possible for the Georgian president’s veto to be overridden?
Yes, the ruling party, Georgian Dream, holds enough seats in parliament to override a presidential veto, allowing the bill to become law despite the president’s objection.
Conclusion
The passage of the “foreign agents” bill in Georgia is a testament to the deepening divisions within Georgian society and politics. As an increasing number of citizens take to the streets to voice their dissent, the government faces a stark challenge in balancing its legislative agenda with the imperative of maintaining public trust and upholding democratic values. The international community’s watchful gaze will no doubt continue as the situation evolves and as key allies voice their concerns over the potential suppression of civil society in a country at the crossroads of East and West. Only time will tell the true impact of this legislation on Georgia’s trajectory.
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