EU says Transparency of Foreign Influence bill inconsistent with Georgia’s aspirations

The External Action Service of the European Union echoed the Georgian draft-bill on Transparency of Foreign Influence, tabled by the parliamentary People’s Power faction, with a statement.

The Service said that the bill raises “serious concerns” and its adoption would be “inconsistent” with Georgia’s “aspirations and with EU norms and values.”

“The proposed draft law on “transparency of foreign influence” raises serious concerns. Creating and maintaining an enabling environment for civil society organisations and ensuring media freedom is at the core of democracy. It is also key to the EU accession process and part of the 12 priorities, notably priority 7 on media freedom and priority 10 on the involvement of civil society.

The European Union is supporting Georgia in its reform efforts, responding to the country’s own aspirations for continued development and EU membership, as enshrined in Georgia’s Constitution.

The draft law’s adoption would be inconsistent with these aspirations and with EU norms and values.

We encourage the political leaders in Georgia to adopt and implement reforms that are in line with the stated objective of joining the European Union, as supported by a large majority of Georgia’s citizens,” reads the statement.