Chairman of the Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, announced significant amendments to the Law on Grants, stating that henceforth if a donor wishes to issue a grant, they must seek approval from the government or an entity designated by it. This amendment places the onus of consent on the donor, rather than the NGO, marking a shift from consent to receive a grant to consent to issue a grant.

According to Papuashvili, this new framework will guarantee complete transparency, allowing citizens to be informed about the flow of funds and the projects being financed.

“Regrettably, there are numerous irresponsible donors, with whom we have engaged for months, even years, attempting to instil a sense of responsibility. We witness them providing funds that end up financing activities such as promoting Molotov cocktails, orchestrating fascist campaigns, and committing violent acts. When we address these issues with donors, they simply wash their hands of responsibility, as if they bear none. This cannot continue. They are utilizing the resources of their own citizens and must act responsibly. Their financial support for harmful activities not only undermines the interests of our society but also poses a threat when it promotes violence and unrest,” asserted Papuashvili.

He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the Georgian populace is aware of what is being financed within the country, affirming that activities in Georgia must align with the interests of its citizens.

“There will be a system in place where the donor must obtain consent—not the NGO. This consent will pertain to the issuance of a grant rather than the acceptance of one. If a donor intends to issue a grant, they are required to apply for government approval. This will facilitate total transparency, enabling citizens to track the money in circulation, the projects being funded, and the intentions behind these projects. Moreover, it will guarantee that these activities promote the welfare of the Georgian people rather than serving the political interests of foreign nations. As citizens of Georgia, all undertakings should prioritize our needs, not the agendas of others,” Papuashvili stated.