Foreign Agents Transparency Law: European Parliament Opposes Membership Talks with Georgia Over “Foreign Agents” Law

The European Parliament has voted on a non-binding resolution calling on the EU not to commence membership negotiations with Georgia until the controversial “Foreign Agents Transparency Law” is repealed.

This decision reflects concerns over the compatibility of the law with European values and its potential impact on Georgia’s aspirations for EU integration.

The resolution, passed with a significant majority, saw 425 MEPs voting in favour, while 25 opposed it, and 30 abstained.

It explicitly condemns the reintroduction of the “Foreign Agents Transparency Law” and asserts that it contradicts European Union values, undermines Georgia’s European aspirations, damages the country’s reputation, and jeopardizes its Euro-Atlantic integration.

The European Parliament’s stance underscores its position that as long as such a law remains in force, the EU should refrain from initiating accession negotiations with Georgia.

This sentiment reflects the seriousness with which European lawmakers view the issue and their commitment to upholding European values in the accession process.

Furthermore, the resolution reportedly includes a call for the EU to consider sanctions against Bidzina Ivanishvili, according to Ricard Jozwiak, Europe Editor at Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.

Euro parl overwhelmingly (425 for, 25 against, 30 abstentions) voted in favour of a non-binding res stating that EU accession negotiations should not be opened as long as the proposed foreign agent law is part of 🇬🇪 legal order & that 🇪🇺 should consider sanctions on Ivanishvili

— Rikard Jozwiak (@RikardJozwiak) April 25, 2024

This move indicates a willingness to take concrete measures in response to perceived violations of democratic principles and human rights.

The adoption of the resolution followed deliberations on several drafts, with a fifth version added before the start of debates. Authors of the five working versions eventually reached a consensus on the final text by April 23.

The situation in Georgia has been marked by widespread protests against the government’s push for the “Foreign Agents Transparency Law,” likened to Russia’s law on “foreign agents.”

While President of Georgia has pledged to veto the legislation, there are concerns that Parliament could override her veto. At present, the bill has only passed its first reading.

Criticism of the proposed law has been particularly vocal in Western circles, with many arguing that it runs counter to Georgia’s Western trajectory. However, Georgian authorities dismiss such criticism as unfounded, with the Prime Minister asserting that the law will be enacted regardless.

The resolution by the European Parliament represents a significant development in the ongoing debate surrounding Georgia’s democratic credentials and its alignment with European values.

It underscores the importance of upholding principles of transparency, freedom of expression, and democratic governance in the context of EU enlargement.

Moving forward, the resolution is likely to shape the dynamics of EU-Georgia relations and influence Georgia’s domestic legislative agenda.

Main Image: Photographer: Philippe STIRNWEISS Copyright: © European Union 2024 – Source : EP

Click here for more News & Current Affairs at EU Today

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________