Legislative authority in Georgia, represented by Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili, has enacted the ‘foreign agents’ bill, as reported by the Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s (RFE/RL) Georgian service on June 3.
During a press conference at the legislative facility, Papuashvili publicly confirmed his approval of the law.
Whilst President Salome Zourabichvili originally vetoed the legislation, which imposes “foreign agents” labeling on groups obtaining international funds—a reflection of Russian policies that suppress dissent against the Kremlin—the parliament, with its majority from the ruling Georgian Dream party, overrode her veto on May 28, securing support from 84 members.
The RFE/RL reports that the law will gradually become operational later the same day it was published, on June 3.
Accompanying rules need to be established within the coming two months, necessitating the Justice Ministry and the National Public Registry Agency to undertake preparatory actions for legislation enactment.
As per the 2023 figures, NGOs and press institutions with more than 20% of their funding sourced internationally must list as “foreign agents” with the authorities within 30 days.
The new law grants the Georgian government powers to audit these entities and access vital information such as personal data.
The bill has faced immense criticism from Georgian domestic opposition and international partners alike. Its return to parliamentary consideration in April sparked substantial protests, which saw law enforcement utilizing rubber bullets and water cannons to manage the crowds.
The United States and the European Union have lambasted the bill for clashing with democratic principles, with prominent EU figures suggesting halting Georgia’s prospective member status should the bill be enacted.
A brief on the current unrest in Georgia:
For several weeks, protesters numbering in the thousands have convened each evening before the Georgian parliament building, voicing their objection to the ‘foreign agents’ bill backed by the Georgian Dream party. The conclusive vote was scheduled for May 14. The legislation mandates
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FAQ Section
What does the Georgian ‘foreign agents’ law entail?
The ‘foreign agents’ law mandates that non-governmental organizations and media outlets in Georgia which receive over 20% of their funding from foreign sources must register as “foreign agents”.
How has the Georgian President responded to the law?
Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili initially vetoed the bill, but the veto was overridden by the parliamentary majority held by the ruling Georgian Dream party.
What has been the international response to the Georgia’s ‘foreign agents’ law?
The international community, including the United States and the European Union, has criticized the law, with claims that it undermines Western democratic values.
What are the implications for organizations designated as ‘foreign agents’?
Organizations labeled as ‘foreign agents’ will be subjected to government monitoring and could face public trust issues, impacting their ability to operate effectively.
Could Georgia’s membership candidacy to the EU be affected?
Yes, there have been discussions within the European Union about potentially freezing Georgia’s membership candidacy status if the ‘foreign agents’ law is implemented.