Georgia's Leadership at Risk of Forfeiting European Future

The future of Georgia’s relationship with the European Union is in peril. Despite strong public demand for a closer relationship with the EU, the country’s leadership has proposed a draft law that mimics Russian legislation, putting its chances of joining the EU at risk. The proposed law would require all foreign-funded non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to register as “foreign agents” and report their activities to the government. This echoes similar laws passed by Russia in 2012, which were widely criticized by international human rights groups for limiting freedom of expression and stifling civil society activity. The Georgian people have made it clear that they want closer ties with Europe; a recent survey found that over 80% support Georgia joining the EU. However, this latest move could put those aspirations in jeopardy and further damage relations between Georgia and its Western allies. The United States has already expressed its concern about the draft law, saying it will “undermine [Georgia’s] progress towards Euro-Atlantic integration” if adopted. The US State Department also noted that it “will not be able to provide assistance to any organization registered as a foreign agent under this new law” if it is passed into effect. Civil society groups have also voiced their opposition to the draft law, arguing that it will lead to an erosion of democratic values and limit freedom of expression in Georgia. They are calling on Parliament to drop the proposal and instead focus on making serious progress towards EU candidacy – something they say is crucial for securing a better future for Georgians.