Lawmakers in Washington are introducing two similar bills aimed at persuading the Georgian government to drop the controversial “Russian law.”
US lawmakers are trying to convince the Georgian government not to adopt the controversial ‘Russian law’.
The law requires media and NGOs to register as “foreign agents” if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad.
It was recently adopted in Georgia, despite huge protests.
The proposed US initiatives are called “Mobilizing and Enhancing George’s Opportunities to Strengthen Accountability, Resilience and Independence” (MEGOBARI) and the Georgian People’s Law.
These laws provide visa liberalization and opportunities for deepening US-Georgia relations in various sectors, but punish those responsible for Georgia’s possible democratic backsliding.
Critics say the law – proposed by the ruling Georgian Dream party – could be used to stifle media freedom and critical voices.
Similar laws adopted in Russia have been used to suppress opposition to the Kremlin.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the introduction of visas for Georgian officials associated with the controversial bill.
In response, the Georgian Dream party accused the United States of emotional blackmail.
In a statement published by the party, they believe that blackmail is against the spirit of the partnership that should be established between two sovereign states.