Shalva Papuashvili: I welcome the statement of the chairman of NED, we heard his commitment, now let’s take action to stop all funding flowing into political parties’ coffers

“I welcome the statement and confirmation from the head of the American National Endowment for Democracy, NED, that a politician in the non-governmental sector is not representative of civil society, and a non-governmental organization that aims to gain political power does not represent civil society,” said Georgian Parliament Speaker, Shalva Papuashvili.

Shalva Papuashvili commented on the statement made by the chairman of the American National Endowment for Democracy (NED), Ken Volak, as published in the media, where Volak stated: “Civil society groups, if they are members of a political party or seek political power, are no longer civil society organizations.”

According to Papuashvili, “Georgian Dream” has been making this claim for a long time. According to Shalva Papuashvili, if these are the sincere words of the head of NED, then funding for party-affiliated non-governmental organizations should be halted. “It is welcomed that the head of this foundation has confirmed this. We appreciate this commitment. Now, we seek evidence that all this will translate into action. It is the American National Democracy Fund, NED, that finances political party “NGOs,” including a non-governmental organization led by the leader of the party “For Georgia,” Natia Mezvrishvili. Also, it supports organizations such as “For the People,” led by Giorgi Kandelaki, and “Center of Progress,” founded by Anna Dolidze. The founders and leaders of all these “NGOs” are politicians and party leaders, who receive financial support from abroad. We have heard these assurances. Now, it is time to act, and if these are sincere promises, all these foundations should cease funding such NGOs. Therefore, we expect tangible action now,” stated Papuashvili.

According to Shalva Papuashvili, the head of the American National Endowment for Democracy also talked about transparency. He said that if any fund is opaque, it is precisely the U.S. National Endowment for Democracy.

“I have personally reached out numerous times through various channels, including personal meetings, to urge transparency regarding the projects they finance for the Georgian people. Despite claims of aiding the Georgian populace, there has been a glaring absence of transparency regarding the nature of this assistance. Regrettably, this information remains undisclosed to this day. The projects they fund are shrouded in secrecy and do not meet any standards of transparency—neither American nor any other. This acknowledgment is appreciated, marking the first time we have heard such a statement from a foreign entity. Previously, it seemed to skirt around the issue, but now it is explicitly stated that “NGOs” involving politicians are not considered “NGOs,” period. Additionally, “NGOs” aiming to gain political influence are not “NGOs,” period. These statements from the American representative are commendable. Now, let’s take action and halt all funding flowing into the pockets of political parties,” stated Shalva Papuashvili.