Embassy: UK shares deep concern of allies following expedited approval of ‘Foreign Agents’ draft bills

British Embassy to Georgia has said “the UK shares the deep concern of our allies and partners following the expedited approval of the draft laws on “transparency of foreign influence” through parliamentary procedures yesterday.”

In its statement, the Embassy noted that “the proposed law, if finally adopted, would impede the ability of Georgia’s friends and strategic partners to continue to assist its democratic and economic development.”

“The aims of this law – which according to public comments from leading figures appear to include deterring donor support and stifling legitimate CSO activity– go against the shared values and commitment to international standards we expect from a partner, and are counter to Georgia’s declared commitment to Euro-Atlantic integration.

We urge Georgia’s leaders to heed the concerns of civil society, independent media, and international partners alike before proceeding further,” reads the statement.

Georgians have been protesting for a second day against the so-called Foreign Agents bills that would require non-governmental and media organizations receiving more than 20% of their foreign funding to register as “foreign agents.”

The “No to the Russian law” rally kicked off on Tuesday after the Georgian Parliament passed a first reading of the legislation.

To disperse the crowds, the riot police used tear gas and water cannon.