Georgia’s parliament has sparked outrage by passing a controversial “foreign agents” law, despite months of protests and warnings from the EU. The bill, set to take effect next month, requires civil rights groups and media outlets receiving foreign funds to register with the government or face fines, drawing comparisons to Putin’s crackdown on NGOs and independent media.
Opposition lawmakers and demonstrators outside the parliament expressed their discontent, waving EU flags and chanting “slaves” in reference to the ruling party’s alleged ties to Russia. The European Commission expressed deep regret over the decision, stating it violates EU principles necessary for Georgia’s path to membership.
The move marks a turning point for Georgia, which recently celebrated its independence from the USSR. Despite nominal commitment to EU integration, the ruling party has been criticized for moving the country closer to Russia. Violent clashes have erupted during the months-long process, with protesters facing harassment and arrests.
The US has imposed sanctions on those undermining democracy in Georgia, while the EU considers suspending visa-free travel. Georgian NGOs warn of the consequences, urging officials to understand the gravity of the situation. The ruling party has dismissed criticism, accusing Western officials of meddling in internal affairs.
As Georgia faces backlash over the law, its future with the EU hangs in the balance. The adoption of the “foreign agents” law has not only sparked domestic unrest but also jeopardized the country’s foreign policy goals, putting its EU bid at risk.