Georgian Parliament Overrides Presidential Veto on Controversial 'Foreign Agents' Law
In a highly contentious move that has drawn widespread international condemnation, Georgia's parliament has voted to override President Salome Zurabishvili's veto on the controversial 'foreign agents' law. The law, which mandates that organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad must register as 'foreign agents', has sparked fierce protests and criticism for its perceived alignment with Russian legislation used to attack dissenters. Critics argue that the legislation represents a significant step backwards for Georgia’s European Union aspirations.
The ruling party, Georgian Dream, insists that the law is necessary to ensure transparency and combat foreign influence, rejecting claims that it is designed to stifle opposition. However, the law has been met with significant backlash both domestically and internationally. As the president’s veto was overridden by 84 votes to 4, thousands of demonstrators gathered around Parliament to voice their discontent, labeling supporters of the law as 'Russians' and 'slaves'.
International Repercussions and Domestic Unrest
The passage of the law has reverberated beyond Georgia's borders. The European Union expressed its deep regret over the decision, noting that the legislation contradicts the Union’s fundamental principles and values. Furthermore, the United States has imposed sanctions on Georgia and implemented visa restrictions, reflecting its disappointment and concerns over the crackdown on protests and the country's sudden political shift.
Prominent international figures have also voiced their dismay. Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen criticized the law, highlighting how it undermines Georgia's Euro-Atlantic integration aspirations and the will of its people. Likewise, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielios Landsbergis described the situation as a 'very sad day' for Georgia and the rest of Europe. Former Georgian ambassador to the EU, Natalie Savandza, called the government's actions a 'coup,' suggesting that it was aligning itself with illiberal forces.
The law's passage comes just months before scheduled parliamentary elections, adding to the tension and uncertainty in the country. Despite receiving candidate status from the European Union in December—a move seen as a reward for the citizens’ pro-European stance—the government’s reintroduction of the law in March has sparked renewed opposition and public unrest.
- The controversial law has a profound impact on civil society organizations in Georgia. Various NGOs and media outlets fear that the law is a tool for political repression and could severely limit their operations. The stipulation requiring them to register as 'foreign agents' if they receive significant funding from abroad is seen as a direct threat to their independence and viability.
- This legislative move marks a significant shift in Georgia's political landscape. Historically, the country has sought closer ties with the European Union and the West. However, the recent actions of the Georgian Dream party suggest a pivot towards aligning with Russian interests, raising concerns about the future of democracy and civil liberties in Georgia.
