Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili has taken a firm stand against a controversial “foreign influence” Bill passed by parliament, calling it “unacceptable” and a threat to free speech. The Bill, pushed by the ruling Georgian Dream party, requires media and non-governmental organizations to register as “pursuing the interests of a foreign power” if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad.
Critics argue that the Bill poses a significant threat to Georgia’s aspirations to join the European Union, with President Zourabichvili vowing to veto it as it goes against EU recommendations. Despite her opposition, the Georgian Dream party holds a majority that can override her veto, leaving the president with limited options.
The passage of the Bill has sparked massive protests in the capital city of Tbilisi, with demonstrators expressing their outrage at the legislation. The US and the EU have also condemned the Bill, with European Council President Charles Michel emphasizing the importance of respecting democratic principles for EU membership.
The White House and US officials have expressed deep concern over the Bill, warning of potential consequences if Georgia continues down this path. US assistant secretary of state for Europe and Eurasia Affairs James O’Brien has made it clear that the US will reassess its relationship with Georgia if the law undermines democracy and leads to violence against peaceful protesters.
The situation in Georgia remains tense as the government faces mounting pressure both domestically and internationally to reconsider the controversial Bill. The outcome of this political standoff will have far-reaching implications for Georgia’s future relationship with the EU and the US.