Georgian Bill Threatens NGOs, Warns OSCE Official
Georgia’s “foreign agents” bill faces strong opposition from OSCE official
A draft bill in Georgia’s government, known as the “foreign agents” bill, is causing concern among civil society organizations and human rights defenders. According to Matteo Mecacci, director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) at the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), this bill creates an atmosphere of “mistrust, fear, and hostility” that will make it challenging for civil society to operate in the country.
The proposed law, which is being pushed through parliament by the ruling Georgian Dream party, has led to massive protests in the capital, Tbilisi. Critics argue that the bill resembles legislation used in Russia to silence dissent and critics.
If the bill is approved, organizations that receive more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad would be required to register as “foreign agents.” This has raised concerns that it could stifle the work of civil society groups that rely on international support.
Mecacci noted that such “foreign agent” laws have a chilling effect on civil society and are detrimental to the work of human rights defenders. He emphasized that labeling these organizations as agents of foreign powers creates an atmosphere of mistrust and hinders their ability to operate effectively.
Criticism of the bill has also come from the United States, Britain, and the European Union, with EU officials warning that it could impede Georgia’s progress towards integration with the bloc. Despite this opposition, the ruling party has continued to push the legislation forward.
The final reading of the bill is scheduled for May 17, with President Salome Zourabichvili stating that she would veto the law if passed by parliament. However, the ruling party has the ability to override a presidential veto with enough votes.
The outcome of the bill will have significant implications for Georgia’s civil society and its relationship with the international community. As the country faces scrutiny over its commitment to democratic values and human rights, the passage of this legislation will be closely watched by observers both at home and abroad.
