Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili has vetoed a draft law on foreign agents, citing concerns that the bill is contrary to the country’s Constitution and European standards. The president’s decision could be overruled by another vote in parliament, where the ruling party and its allies hold the majority.
President Zourabichvili described the draft law as a “Russian law” in its essence and spirit, and emphasized that it represents an obstacle to Georgia’s European path. He believes that the law should be repealed to maintain the country’s alignment with European standards.
Despite the president’s veto, Parliament is expected to overturn it, leading to continued protests in the capital, Tbilisi. The draft law requires organizations that receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as agents of foreign influence, with stricter disclosure requirements and fines for violations.
Critics view the bill as a litmus test for Georgia’s commitment to European integration or a potential return to Russian influence. The United States and the European Union have urged the ruling Georgian Dream party to withdraw the legislation, fearing that it could impact the country’s aspirations to join the EU.. Read More Here
