The European Union has expressed serious concern over the statement made by Georgia’s ruling party, “Georgian Dream,” regarding plans to adopt a law on “foreign agents.”
It “regrets” that such plans are being reconsidered despite the negative reaction from the public and the international community in March 2023.
According to a statement by Peter Stano, the spokesperson for EU Foreign Affairs, the creation and maintenance of a conducive environment for civil society organisations and ensuring freedom of the press are fundamental to democracy, which is also crucial for the EU accession process.
Stano reminded that Georgia obtained candidate status on the condition of fulfilling the relevant steps outlined in the European Commission’s recommendations from November 8th, 2023.
“The 9th step includes a recommendation for Georgia to ensure the free operation of civil society, while step 1 calls on Georgia to combat disinformation aimed at the EU and its values,” the statement reads.
The spokesperson emphasized that transparency should not be used as a tool to restrict the ability of civil society to act freely.
“We call on Georgia’s political leadership to adopt and implement reforms that correspond to the stated goal of EU accession, which is supported by the vast majority of citizens,” Stano underscored.
The EU also urged Georgia to uphold its commitments regarding the advancement of democracy, rule of law, and human rights.
It is noteworthy that on April 3rd, it was revealed that Georgia’s ruling party has revived plans to adopt a law on “transparency of foreign influence,” which has drawn comparisons to Russia’s “foreign agents” law.
The first attempt to pass this bill in spring 2023 led to widespread protests.
Although the parliament approved the bill in the first reading, under sharp criticism from the EU and the US, and amid protests, the government eventually decided to withdraw it.
The opposition is once again calling for protests, seeing the initiative as an attempt to undermine freedom of speech, pressure civil society, and discredit organisations and media outlets critical of the government.
Click here for more News & Current Affairs at EU Today
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
