The reintroduction of Georgia’s “Transparency of Foreign Influence” bill sparked renewed protests, echoing last year’s demonstrations against the legislation seen as stifling free speech and targeting NGOs. Protesters, including activists and NGO representatives, gathered outside the parliament, denouncing the bill as akin to Russian laws and demanding its withdrawal.
The bill mandates NGOs and media receiving over 20% of funding from abroad to register as “foreign agents,” drawing criticism for potentially curbing press freedom and EU integration. Opposition parties, backed by international entities like the US, EU, and UN, oppose the bill, likening it to Russia’s “Foreign Agents Law.” Despite earlier withdrawal due to public outcry, the ruling Georgian Dream Party resubmitted the bill, igniting fresh dissent and accusations of undermining EU integration efforts.