The ruling Georgian Dream party has approved a set of controversial laws, including a “foreign agent” act aimed at NGOs and media. Critics say it mimics the U.S. FARA but is weaponized against dissent.
President Kavelashvili is expected to sign the laws, some of which take effect immediately. The foreign agent law will be enforced in 60 days.
Key changes:
— Foreign-funded NGOs and media labeled as “agents”
— Foreign funding for broadcasters banned; tighter media controls
— Term “gender” removed from 15 laws
— NGOs excluded from lawmaking process
— “Treason” article restored to the criminal code
Opposition and civil society call it a step away from democracy and EU values.
