The Georgian parliament committee has rejected President Salome Zourabichvili’s veto of the “foreign agents” legislation, which has led to widespread protests. The law would require news media and NGOs that receive more than 20% of their budget from abroad to register as “carrying out the interests of a foreign power.” Critics argue that this law will restrict media freedom and hinder Georgia’s chances of joining the EU, likening it to measures pushed through by the Kremlin. The ruling Georgian Dream party believes the bill is necessary to counter what it sees as harmful foreign influence in the country.
Despite the opposition’s criticism, ruling party member Maka Bochorishvili defended the legislation, stating that it is essential for Georgia’s stability and peace. She dismissed claims that the law is reminiscent of Russian regulations, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the country’s integration with Europe. Large protests have erupted in Tbilisi as the measure progressed through parliament, with Zourabichvili vetoing the law on May 18. However, the Georgian Dream bloc has enough votes to potentially override the veto, setting the stage for a contentious vote in the full legislature.
President Zourabichvili and Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze exchanged accusations during a recent Independence Day ceremony, with Zourabichvili emphasizing the importance of partnership with Europe for Georgia’s independence and peace. Kobakhidze accused the president of betraying the country, lauding the government’s efforts to maintain peace in the face of external threats. The European Union has expressed concerns about the law’s impact on Georgia’s EU aspirations, with the possibility that it could be driven by Russia to obstruct Georgia’s alignment with the West. In response, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced sanctions on Georgian officials involved in undermining democracy, urging the country’s leaders to reconsider the legislation and uphold its democratic values.
The rejection of the president’s veto sets the stage for a potential vote by the full legislature to override the decision, highlighting the ongoing political tensions in Georgia. The divide between the ruling party and opposition on the “foreign agents” legislation reflects broader concerns about democracy and media freedom in the country. The protests in Tbilisi and the international criticism of the law underscore the significance of this issue for Georgia’s future trajectory. As the country grapples with internal divisions and external pressures, the outcome of this legislative battle could have far-reaching implications for Georgia’s relationship with the West and its democratic development.
