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Georgian lawmakers have recently approved an override of President Salome Zurabishvili’s veto of the controversial “foreign agent” law, sparking protests outside of parliament and raising concerns about the country’s relationship with the European Union.
The ruling Georgian Dream party successfully pushed through the override on May 28, with the support of the Democratic Georgia party. Despite calls from the EU and several member states to reconsider, the law will now go back to Zurabishvili for final approval.
The law, often referred to as the “Russian law,” is similar to legislation in Russia aimed at restricting opposition and free speech. It would require civil society and media organizations that receive more than 20 percent of their funding from foreign sources to submit to oversight, potentially leading to sanctions.
Critics argue that the law was introduced by the Georgia Dream party, founded by a Russia-friendly tycoon, to solidify its power ahead of crucial upcoming elections. The party maintains that the law is intended to increase transparency in NGO funding and does not undermine Georgia’s aspirations to join Western institutions.
Georgia’s civil society has long sought to distance itself from Russian influence, particularly in light of the ongoing presence of Russian troops in breakaway regions recognized by Moscow in 2008. The EU and the United States have warned Georgian Dream of negative consequences if it continues to ignore criticism and suppress protests.
The European Union has expressed deep regret over the decision to override Zurabishvili’s veto, stating that the law contradicts fundamental EU principles and values. EU member states are considering potential reactions to the development, which could impact Georgia’s progress toward EU candidacy.
Parliament speakers from seven EU member countries issued a joint statement calling on Georgian lawmakers to revoke the legislation, emphasizing the need for dialogue with civil society and the protection of democratic values.
As the EU weighs its options in response to the law, Georgian officials and activists have voiced concerns about its potential impact on civil society. With the fate of Georgia’s EU candidacy at stake, the country faces a critical juncture in its relationship with the European Union.
