Georgia at the crossroads as foreign influence law deepens divisions

The law on “transparency of foreign influence” passed in Parliament of Georgia on 14th May despite weeks of almost daily demonstrations, continues to cause a public outcry. Opponents to the law say it is inspired by Moscow, and could compromise the country’s European destiny. 

“This law is against democracy, it is against human rights”, says Mamuka Kotetishvili a scientist, standing with his family in front of the Georgian Parliament among several thousand protesters. “It will affect not only the governance instances, but all fields of activity in Georgia, from the health system to the agricultural system.” he adds.

The Georgian law on “transparency of foreign influence” requires any entity of which more than 20% of the funds come from abroad to register as an “organisation carrying out the interests of a foreign power” and to submit to administrative control by the State.

Some 25,000 NGOs operating in all sectors of activity are concerned. Critics say what they call the “Russian law” is inspired by similar legislation passed in Russia in 2012, which has led to the muzzling of any voices considered critical to the Kremlin.

Those dedicated to defending the rule of law, and independent media, say they are most at risk.

“Being labelled as pursuing foreign interests has only negative connotations. This implies we are foreign agents. Working under this label will completely destroy trust in the media.” says Lika Zakashvili, co-founder and Editor-in-chief of the online media, Publika.

“And according to this law, the Ministry of Justice is authorized to access organisations and process personal information. This is particularly dangerous for media organisations, because we store the personal information of our sources. And it’s