Lawmakers in Washington are taking action to prevent the Georgian government from implementing a controversial “Russian law” that requires media and NGOs to register as “foreign agents” if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad. Despite mass protests in Georgia, the law was recently passed by the ruling Georgian Dream party. In response, US lawmakers have introduced two bills – the “Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia’s Options for Building Accountability, Resilience and Independence” (MEGOBARI) and the Georgian People’s Act – which offer visa liberalization and opportunities to deepen US-Georgia relations while also sanctioning those responsible for any democratic backslide in Georgia.
Critics of the law fear that it could be used to suppress media freedom and critical voices, similar to how similar legislation in Russia has been used to silence opposition to the Kremlin. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has announced visa restrictions against Georgian officials connected to the controversial bill. In response, the Georgian Dream party accused the US of emotional blackmail, stating that such actions are not in line with the spirit of partnership between two sovereign states.
The introduction of these bills by US lawmakers highlights their commitment to protecting democratic values and freedom of expression in Georgia. By offering incentives for cooperation while also holding officials accountable for anti-democratic actions, the US aims to support Georgia in its efforts to uphold democratic principles and resist the influence of authoritarian regimes.
Source
Photo credit www.euronews.com