So foreign, can't recognise
04 August 2024
The summer is unexpectedly cool in Georgia this year, but the temperature has not cooled the political climate. As of 1 August, the controversial law on "foreign influence" has come into full effect. From now on, any NGO or media outlet receiving more than 20% of its funding from abroad is now required to register as a "foreign agent" with a special registry created by the justice ministry. Organisations that refuse to comply – many have already pledged not to – risk massive financial penalties, raids, potential harassment, and further discreditation of their work by the ruling elite.
 | Ana Kakalashvili The repercussions of the law have been swift. The EU is considering suspending the financial aid to Georgia, following the United States' lead. This week, Washington announced a halt on $95 million worth of assistance to Georgia. This decision follows the US announcement in early June to indefinitely postpone joint military exercises with the country and impose the first round of sanctions on Georgian government officials: the sanctions include travel restrictions on those deemed responsible for "undermining democracy in Georgia." Additionally, Brussels acted swiftly to freeze €30 million from its European Peace Facility, intended for defence sector support, after halting the EU accession process for Georgia in June. With the October parliamentary elections on the horizon, Georgians are left with a feeling of uncertainty about their future, questioning the extent of the damage inflicted by the ruling party and how much of it can be repaired (if) moving forward. |
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