The Legal Issues Committee has reviewed amendments to the Organic Law on Political Unions of Citizens and related draft laws in the first reading and under an expedited procedure. The legislative initiative, proposed by the Georgian Dream faction, was presented by its First Deputy Chairman, Irakli Kirtskhalia.

According to the draft, political parties and individuals with declared electoral goals will be prohibited from receiving donations in the form of lectures, seminars, or similar public events from legal entities registered in Georgia or abroad, as well as from other types of associations. The draft also stipulates that receiving grants from foreign sources will require the consent of the Government of Georgia or an authorized body designated by it. Oversight of such grants will fall under the Anti-Corruption Bureau.

As Kirtskhalia explained, accepting a grant without proper authorization will result in a fine equal to twice the amount received. Exceptions will apply to individual scholarships and grants for general and higher education, scientific work abroad, and grants from international sports federations and committees, which will not require government approval.

Kirtskhalia emphasized that while current legislation bans political parties from accepting donations from legal entities, loopholes have allowed such entities—domestic or foreign—to indirectly support radical opposition through free public events, such as lectures or seminars. He stated that, following the amendments, legal entities will be barred from financing such events for political purposes.

The legislative package will also regulate the process of issuing grants from foreign donors. Georgian legislation already recognizes a broad range of grant-issuing entities, including foreign governments and international organizations.

“Since a grant is by nature a free transfer of funds for a specific purpose, it is essential to introduce a consent mechanism to further protect Georgia’s sovereignty,” Kirtskhalia said.

He added that the proposed changes to the Law on Grants aim to prevent foreign entities from funding anti-state activities under the guise of humanitarian aid.

Chairman of the Legal Affairs Committee, Archil Gorduladze, clarified that government consent will not be required for grants related to education or work abroad. He also noted that if a transaction is identified as a grant requiring approval, the Anti-Corruption Bureau will investigate, and if confirmed, liability will be imposed for any fictitious dealings.

“When it comes to sovereignty, independence, and national identity, it’s essential to safeguard national security. In today’s geopolitical climate, preventive legal measures are necessary to protect the country,” Kirtskhalia concluded.