The EU is concerned about Georgia's decision to revise the draft law on "foreign agents"
Kyiv • UNN
The EU called on Georgia to refuse to revise the draft law on "transparency of foreign influence" due to its potential impact on media freedom and Georgia's EU accession process.
The decision of Georgia's ruling party to reintroduce a draft law on "transparency of foreign influence" is causing serious concern among EU members. This was reported by UNN with reference to a statement by the European Commission's spokesperson for foreign policy Peter Stano.
Details
The EU emphasizes that last year the Georgian government promised to withdraw the draft law.
Creating and maintaining an enabling environment for civil society organizations and ensuring media freedom is the foundation of democracy. It is also crucial for the EU accession process
The EU reminds that the European Council granted Georgia candidate status subject to the implementation of the relevant steps set out in the Commission's recommendation of November 8, 2023.
In particular, step 9 recommends that Georgia ensure the free operation of civil society, and step 1 calls on Georgia to combat disinformation against the EU and its values.
We encourage Georgia's political leaders to adopt and implement reforms that are in line with the stated goal of joining the European Union, which is supported by a large majority of Georgian citizens. The EU calls on Georgia to honor its commitments to promote democracy, the rule of law and human rights.
Recall
Georgia's ruling party plans to return to a bill requiring organizations that receive foreign funds to register as "foreign agents" despite protests and criticism from opponents and Western countries last year.
