The European Parliament has voiced its strong condemnation of Georgia’s controversial draft law on “transparency of foreign influence”. With a decisive majority of 425 votes in favor, 25 against, and 30 abstentions, MEPs rallied behind a resolution demanding a halt to the adoption of the legislation by the Georgian parliament.
The proposed law, which sailed through its first reading on April 17, 2024, mandates organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as “organizations pursuing the interests of a foreign power”. This move, as emphasized by MEPs, would impose debilitating restrictions on media and civil society, severely curbing their freedom to operate.
Expressing grave concerns, MEPs highlighted that such legislation not only contradicts fundamental EU values and principles but also undermines Georgia’s aspirations for EU membership. The adoption of such a law, MEPs stress, would be incompatible with the country’s path towards European integration.
The resolution comes amidst widespread protests in Georgia against the draft law, with reports of riot police resorting to disproportionate force to quell dissent. MEPs call for a thorough investigation into these incidents and urge the Georgian authorities to hold those responsible accountable.
Furthermore, the European Parliament underscores that the opening of EU accession negotiations with Georgia should not proceed as long as the controversial law remains a part of the country’s legal framework. This stance reaffirms the EU’s commitment to upholding democratic values and the rule of law.
Of significant concern is the apparent inspiration drawn by the Georgian government from Russian legislation, which has been notoriously employed to suppress civil society, independent media, and political opposition. MEPs vehemently denounce this trend, warning against any regression towards authoritarian practices.
As the European Parliament stands firm in its support for the Georgian people’s European aspirations, it calls upon the European Commission and member states to assess the ramifications of the draft law on the EU’s engagement and assistance to Georgia.
In a unified voice, the EU Parliament sends a clear message: Georgia must uphold democratic principles and refrain from enacting legislation that undermines fundamental freedoms and the rule of law.