The Georgian Parliament has approved the bill “On Broadcasting” in its third reading, which prohibits media broadcasters from receiving funding from foreign sources.

During today’s plenary session, 86 MPs voted for the measure. Under the approved decision, the ban will also extend to social advertisements.

Specifically, an article is being added to the law, which stipulates that broadcasters will be prohibited to receive direct or indirect funding in exchange for placing social advertisements. The law also forbids broadcasters from receiving direct or indirect funding from foreign powers – whether in monetary sums or other material benefits of property value.

Foreign entities will also be prohibited from purchasing broadcasting services (except for commercial advertising and product placement) and from directly or indirectly financing or co-financing the production or broadcasting of programs.

The law specifies that, for its purposes, a “foreign power” is considered to be a constituent entity of a foreign government system, an individual who is not a citizen of Georgia, a legal entity that is not incorporated under Georgian legislation, and any organizational structure, including foundations, associations, corporations, unions, or other types of organizations and associations established under the laws of a foreign state or international law.

The bill will be sent to the President for signature.