Georgian legislators discuss overturning president’s veto on controversial foreign influence legislation | Global News

Georgian lawmakers are embroiled in a heated debate over a controversial “foreign agents” legislation that has sparked massive protests and raised concerns in the West. The bill, which requires media and nonprofit organizations to register as “pursuing the interests of a foreign power” if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad, has been vetoed by President Salome Zourabichvili.

Critics argue that the bill will restrict media freedom and hinder Georgia’s chances of joining the European Union. Zourabichvili, who has clashed with the ruling Georgian Dream party, accused them of jeopardizing the country’s future and hindering its path towards democracy.

The government defends the bill as necessary to combat foreign actors trying to destabilize the nation, but many journalists and activists see it as an attempt to stigmatize and silence dissent ahead of parliamentary elections in October. The legislation has drawn comparisons to Russian laws aimed at suppressing independent media and civil society.

International pressure is mounting on Georgia, with the EU warning that the law could harm the country’s progress towards EU membership. The US has announced travel sanctions on Georgian officials involved in undermining democracy, urging the government to reconsider the bill.

As tensions rise in Tbilisi, protesters are rallying against what they see as a pivotal moment for the country’s future. The outcome of the debate will not only shape Georgia’s relationship with the West but also determine its path towards democracy and independence.