Georgia’s path to EU membership is facing a major roadblock as European leaders have expressed concerns over the passing of a controversial foreign influence law in the country. The leaders, gathered at a summit in Brussels, described the passing of the law as a “backsliding” on the steps required for Georgia to join the bloc.
In a document released on Thursday, the European Council called on Georgia’s authorities to reverse their current course of action, which they believe jeopardizes Georgia’s EU path. The leaders reiterated their solidarity with the Georgian people and expressed their readiness to continue supporting them on their journey towards a European future.
Georgia was granted EU candidate country status in December, with a list of steps to be taken, including justice reform, in order to proceed with the accession process. However, the bloc has raised concerns about the new foreign influence law, set to take effect next month.
Under the law, media and non-governmental organizations receiving over 20% of their funding from abroad will have to register as “organizations acting in the interest of a foreign power”, undergo stringent audits, or face fines. The Georgian government argues that the law will ensure transparency in funding for NGOs and protect the country from foreign interference.
Critics of the law, however, have labeled it as the “Russian law” due to its similarities with legislation in Russia. They believe that the true intention behind the law is to suppress dissent ahead of the parliamentary elections in October. The US has also voiced concerns about the law, citing threats to free speech.
Thousands of Georgians have taken to the streets in protest against the law, with reports of NGO workers, activists, and opposition politicians facing threats and physical assaults at rallies. EU leaders have condemned these acts of intimidation and called for a halt to such behavior.
As the situation in Georgia continues to unfold, EU leaders have pledged to closely monitor developments in the country and have urged the government to ensure that the upcoming elections are free and fair. The future of Georgia’s EU membership aspirations hangs in the balance as the country grapples with the implications of the controversial foreign influence law.
