EU calls for repeal of the "Russian legislature."
Spitefully fast-tracking the adoption of the controversial "agents" law, the Georgian parliament in Tbilisi remains resolute despite widespread objections. The EU has responded with shock and expressed their stern displeasure towards the move, stating "The passing of this law will hinder Georgia's progress towards EU membership."
After the contentious legislation passed, curtailing foreign involvement in Georgian civil society, top EU leaders have demanded prompt reconsideration. Josep Borrell, European Commissioner for Foreign Affairs, and Olivier Varhelyi, European Commissioner for External Relations, issued a joint statement declaring "The approval of this law hinders Georgia's progress towards EU membership."
The decision now rests with Georgia itself. These Commissioners insist, "We urge Georgian authorities to revoke the law, stay loyal to their EU entry commitment and advance with the essential reforms specified in the nine actions." Georgia gained the status of an EU candidate nation at the close of the previous year.
Per EU’s granted approval, Georgia's candidate status came with the directive that they satisfy the nine actions from a Commission recommendation. Some of these include respecting human rights, enabling independence in media and civil society operations.
Opposing the law, international concern remains high. After its approval by the Georgian Dream party's governing majority on Tuesday, the regulation aims to constrict the impact of foreign influences on non-governmental organizations and media outlets receiving 20 percent of their funding from foreign sources. The response: demands for enhanced clarity.
Suspicions persist, however, as critics believe this act is intended to stifle dissenting voices, mirroring Russia's restrictive paths. Such fears linger as the population remains unsettled by Georgian Dream's perceived authoritarian approach, opposed to their longing for EU integration. Further demonstrations from the masses ensued as the law became law in parliament. Media reports describe throngs of citizens assembling in Tbilisi's streets on Tuesday night.
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In light of the EU's disapproval, there have been calls for Georgia to reconsider the recently passed law, which critics claim could hinder its path to EU membership. This law, controversial within Georgia, restricts the influence of foreign funding on non-governmental organizations and media outlets in Tbilisi, sparking protests from Georgian citizens concerned about stifled dissent and a potential echo of Russia's restrictive practices.
Source: www.ntv.de
