TBILISI, Georgia – The recent passing of a controversial media law in Georgia has sparked widespread protests and raised concerns about threats to media freedom and the country’s aspirations of joining the European Union. The bill, which requires media organizations, NGOs, and nonprofit groups to register if they receive significant funding from abroad, was signed into law by Speaker Shalva Papuashvili after the ruling party overrode a veto by President Salome Zourabichvili.
Critics of the law argue that it will stifle dissent and limit democratic freedoms in the country. President Zourabichvili, who has been at odds with the ruling party, warned that the legislation could hinder Georgia’s path towards full integration into the democratic world. Political analyst Ghia Nodia described the law as a “turning point” for Georgia, leading it away from democracy and towards authoritarianism.
Supporters of the bill, including Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, contend that it is necessary to combat foreign interference and destabilization in the country. However, many journalists and activists believe that the true intent of the law is to silence critics and opposition voices ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for October.
Opponents of the law have likened it to measures seen in Russia aimed at curbing independent media and civil society. The opposition party Girchi – More Freedom condemned the legislation as an attempt to eliminate critical media, NGOs, and opposition parties, drawing parallels to the restrictive environment in Russia.
In response to the passing of the law, the United National Movement faced a violent attack on its central offices by masked assailants, with allegations of links to the ruling party. The Interior Ministry has launched an investigation into the incident, further escalating tensions in the country.
The European Union and the United States have both expressed concerns over the legislation, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken imposing travel sanctions on officials involved in undermining democracy in Georgia. The EU has warned that the law could negatively impact Georgia’s progress towards EU membership, urging the government to uphold democratic principles and Euro-Atlantic aspirations.
As Georgia grapples with the implications of the new law, civil society organizations have vowed to challenge its constitutionality in court. The ongoing debate surrounding the legislation reflects broader tensions in the country over the balance between national security concerns and the protection of democratic values.