TBILISI, Georgia – The president of Georgia has vetoed a controversial law that has sparked widespread protests in the country. The law, dubbed the “Russian law,” would require media and NGOs to register as serving the interests of a foreign power if they receive a significant amount of funding from abroad.
Critics argue that the law resembles legislation used by the Kremlin to suppress dissent and believe that it will hinder Georgia’s efforts to join the European Union. President Salome Zourabichvili, who has clashed with the ruling party, stated that the law contradicts Georgia’s Constitution and European standards, calling for its abolition.
Despite the president’s veto, the ruling party, Georgian Dream, holds a majority that can override it. The government defends the law as a measure to promote transparency and reduce what it views as harmful foreign influence in the country. However, many journalists and activists in Georgia believe the law aims to stigmatize them and limit discussions ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections in October.
Last December, the European Union granted Georgia candidate status but emphasized the need for key policy reforms to advance its membership bid. Recommendations include ensuring free and fair elections, combating disinformation, and safeguarding the independence of public institutions. The opposition accuses Georgian Dream of obstructing EU integration, alleging that the party seeks closer ties with Russia.
The bill bears similarities to a previous proposal that faced backlash and protests last year, resulting in its withdrawal. Renewed demonstrations in recent weeks have led to clashes between protesters and law enforcement, with reports of police violence against demonstrators. EU officials and Western leaders have expressed concern over the law and Georgia’s response to dissent.
President Zourabichvili acknowledged the displeasure of Moscow towards Georgia’s pro-Western aspirations, highlighting strained relations since Georgia’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The 2008 war between Russia and Georgia over the breakaway provinces of South Ossetia and Abkhazia further exacerbated tensions, leading to severed diplomatic ties between the two countries.
While Russia has recognized the independence of these regions, most of the international community considers them part of Georgia, contributing to ongoing diplomatic tensions. Despite improvements in Russia-Georgia relations in recent years, the regions’ status remains a contentious issue.