Explainer: What is the Controversial Bill Prompting Protests in Georgia?

Georgia's parliament commenced discussions on Tuesday regarding a contentious bill concerning 'foreign agents', prompting a second day of protests from opponents who perceive the measure as a threat to Georgia's aspirations for European Union membership. The bill, which would mandate organizations receiving over 20% of their funding from abroad to register as foreign agents, has ignited fierce debate within the country and drawn criticism from Western nations.

The bill pertains to the regulation of organizations that receive a significant portion of their funding from abroad. Specifically, it proposes that organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from foreign sources must register as 'foreign agents'.

Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary to safeguard against foreign interference and promote transparency within Georgia's civil society. They contend that the legislation will help prevent undue influence from external actors and ensure that organizations operating within Georgia are accountable to its laws and regulations.

However, opponents of the bill view it as a threat to democratic freedoms and civil liberties within Georgia. They argue that the bill's provisions could be used to suppress dissent and target organizations critical of the government.

Critics also draw parallels between this proposed legislation and similar laws implemented in Russia, which have been used to suppress political opposition and civil society activism.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

1. Organizations that receive more than 20% of their funding from foreign sources would be required to register as 'foreign agents'.

2. Registered foreign agents would be mandated to disclose detailed information about their funding sources, expenditures, and activities.

3. Non-compliance with the registration and disclosure requirements could result in fines or other punitive measures against the organizations deemed to violate the law.

Similar Laws in Russia:

In Russia, similar laws have been enacted to regulate non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society actors perceived as receiving foreign funding or engaging in activities deemed to be against the state's interests. One notable piece of legislation is the 'Foreign Agents Law', officially titled the 'Law on Non-Commercial Organizations Acting as 'Foreign Agents', which was passed in 2012 during President Vladimir Putin's third term in office.

The Foreign Agents Law requires NGOs that receive foreign funding and engage in 'political activities' to register as 'foreign agents'. These NGOs are then subjected to heightened scrutiny and reporting requirements, including regular audits and the labelling of their materials with the 'foreign agent' designation. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines, legal sanctions, and ultimately closure of the organization.

In addition to the Foreign Agents Law, Russia has also implemented other legislation aimed at regulating NGOs and civil society, such as laws on 'undesirable organizations' and extremism'. These laws provide authorities with further tools to restrict the activities of NGOs and suppress dissenting voices under the guise of national security and protecting public order.

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