Biden admin deeply concerned over Georgia’s push for Russian-inspired ‘foreign agents law’

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Biden Administration Expresses Alarm Over Georgia's Proposed "Foreign Agents Law"

 

The Biden administration has voiced profound concern over Georgia's renewed push for a legislation reminiscent of Russian-inspired laws, raising fears of stifling civil society groups, NGOs, and free expression.

 

In a statement issued by State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, the U.S. expressed deep apprehension regarding the reintroduction of a revised version of last year's "foreign agents law" by the Georgian Parliament. This legislation mandates NGOs and civil society organizations receiving international funding to register as foreign agents. Miller emphasized that such a move poses a significant threat to the vital work of civil society organizations, which play a crucial role in areas like healthcare, education, and social welfare, ultimately undermining Georgia's path towards Euro-Atlantic integration.

 

The rebranded version of the law, now titled "On Transparency of Foreign Influence," was introduced by Georgia's ruling parliamentary party, Georgian Dream, on April 3. This comes after the law was withdrawn last year amidst domestic and international backlash. Georgian Dream claims the law aims to promote transparency regarding NGO funding, particularly targeting groups deemed to be promoting unrest or revolutionary activities.

 

According to Georgian Dream's statement, the new draft retains the essence of the 2023 law, with a slight modification to define foreign agents as organizations serving the interests of foreign powers. Georgia's geopolitical position, with two territories under Russian occupation since 2008, places it at the forefront of Russia's expansionist agenda, especially amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

 

Despite efforts to maintain close ties with Moscow, Georgia has also pursued integration into the European Union, a move widely supported by its populace. However, the reintroduction of the foreign agents law has sparked concern both domestically and internationally. The European Union echoed the U.S.'s sentiments, emphasizing that while transparency is crucial, it should not be wielded as a tool to curtail the freedom of civil society.

 

As Georgia navigates its delicate geopolitical landscape, balancing relations between Russia and its Euro-Atlantic aspirations, the international community remains vigilant, urging the government to uphold democratic values and respect for fundamental rights. The fate of the foreign agents law will undoubtedly impact Georgia's trajectory and its aspirations for closer integration with the West.

 

08.04.24

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[retarius]

Georgia has been debating this for some time. Georgia is on the right track. I think NGOs do little good but are centres the CIA use to funnel money to destabilise countries and to get US favoured candidates elected. The US doesn't let the nations splash cash around in its country, and it makes such foreign funded agents seeking to do ill inside any the country register as foreign agents. Yes I support Georgia's initiative and hope it catches on and these vile UN NGOs are all kicked out

[Chomper Higgot]

1 hour ago, retarius said:

Georgia has been debating this for some time. Georgia is on the right track. I think NGOs do little good but are centres the CIA use to funnel money to destabilise countries and to get US favoured candidates elected. The US doesn't let the nations splash cash around in its country, and it makes such foreign funded agents seeking to do ill inside any the country register as foreign agents. Yes I support Georgia's initiative and hope it catches on and these vile UN NGOs are all kicked out

Like the NRA funneling overseas funds to the GOP?

[Chomper Higgot]

Deal with the real financial threat to American Democracy.

 

Citizens United!