Georgia opposition leaders urge UK to oppose foreign influence bill

Opposition leaders in Georgia are urging the UK to take a stronger stance against what they perceive as a crackdown on civil liberties in their country.

They have called upon the foreign secretary to demonstrate to the ruling party that the international community stands united against the proposed legislation.

The Transparency of Foreign Influence Bill, expected to pass its final stages in parliament soon, has sparked widespread protests in Tbilisi, the capital.

This bill mandates that non-governmental organizations and media outlets register as “organizations serving the interests of a foreign power” if more than 20% of their funding originates from overseas.

While the governing Georgian Dream party argues that the bill aims to enhance transparency and safeguard national sovereignty, critics assert that it will be exploited to suppress dissenting voices and opposition parties ahead of the upcoming general election in October.

Opponents also claim that the legislation could jeopardize Georgia’s aspirations to join the European Union, a concern echoed by international observers who liken the bill to measures employed by the Kremlin to silence dissent in Russia.

The protests against the bill have drawn tens of thousands onto the streets, reflecting widespread public opposition.

While the United States has openly condemned the legislation, with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan expressing deep concern over democratic regression in Georgia, the UK’s response has been more subdued.

While acknowledging private expressions of concern, the UK has not taken a robust public stance. The Minister for Europe, Nusrat Ghani, stated that concerns were raised in meetings with Georgian officials, and a social media post highlighted worries over police conduct during protests.

Georgian opposition MPs are calling for stronger action from the UK government, urging them to follow the US lead in condemning the bill unequivocally.

They emphasize the need for public statements to signal unity against authoritarian measures.

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has expressed grave concerns over the bill and urged restraint in policing protests. Engagement with Georgian authorities and civil society continues, with concerns reiterated to government officials.