Georgia has recently passed a controversial foreign influence bill, sparking mass protests throughout the country. The law requires media and non-governmental organizations to register as “pursuing the interests of a foreign power” if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad. The bill has led to concerns that it undermines democracy and could jeopardize Georgia’s chances of joining the European Union. The White House and several European countries, including the UK, Germany, Italy, and France, have all urged Georgia to withdraw the bill.
Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze defended the bill, stating that it creates strong guarantees of long-term peace and tranquility in the country and helps to overcome political polarization. He emphasized the importance of strengthening the state interests of Georgia and ensuring that decisions are made by the political majority, rather than being forced by a political minority. Despite these assertions, opponents of the bill, who have likened it to Russian legislation, believe that it marks a shift towards closer ties with Russia and poses a threat to Georgia’s democratic future.
Former president of the Georgian Bank, Irakli Kadagizde, expressed concerns about the government’s decision to adopt laws similar to those introduced by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Protests against the bill have been ongoing, with demonstrators blocking highways and clashing with riot police in Tbilisi. The international community has also expressed alarm over the bill, with the White House condemning its passage and the State Department warning of possible sanctions. President Salome Zourabichvili has announced her intention to veto the bill, but the ruling party can override her veto if it garners enough votes.
Georgia’s candidacy for EU membership has been put at risk by the passage of the foreign influence bill, as it has raised doubts about the country’s commitment to democratic principles. The National Democratic Institute has reported that support for EU membership among the Georgian population is high, highlighting the importance of maintaining democratic norms and aligning with European values. The bill’s opponents fear that it will stifle freedom of expression and civil society in Georgia, hampering its ability to progress towards EU integration.
The passage of the foreign influence bill has highlighted the deep divisions within Georgian society, with tensions escalating between supporters and critics of the legislation. The government’s attempts to defend the bill as a measure to promote peace and stability have been met with skepticism by those who see it as a means of consolidating power and silencing dissent. As protests continue and international pressure mounts, Georgia faces a critical juncture in its relationship with the EU and its commitment to democratic governance. The outcome of this controversy will have far-reaching implications for Georgia’s future trajectory and its standing in the global community.
