Georgia’s ruling Georgian Dream party has proposed a legislative change that would extend current broadcast restrictions to online media and social networks.
The initiative, discussed on Monday during a parliamentary session on sectoral economy and economic policy, aims to regulate digital platforms amid “growing concerns over information dissemination”.
Archil Gorduladze, a member of the Georgian Dream party, addressed the session, explaining the “necessity” of adapting laws to the “evolving digital landscape”.
“As technologies improve and information spreads through various channels, there must be legislative amendments to reflect this change,” Gorduladze claimed.
The proposed amendments would classify internet domains and hosting services as media platforms, subject to the same regulations as traditional broadcasters. This would include media content presented in the state language, whether on an internet domain, hosting platform, or social media.
“The bill will clarify the definition of an internet service and ensure that mass information in the state language, regardless of the platform, is subject to these regulations,” Gorduladze added.
The initiative also applies to social media pages of media outlets, including those on third-party platforms, where content is shared.
The move to regulate online media comes after the People’s Power political group, known for its anti-Western rhetoric, expressed concerns over the influence of social networks on public opinion.
Sozar Subari, a member of the group, emphasized that social networks have a far-reaching impact, surpassing traditional media in terms of audience and influence. “It would be beneficial to start regulating this area to protect human dignity, private life, and prevent insults,” Subari said.
This legislative push follows the controversial amendments to the Law on Broadcasting, which were adopted in the first reading by parliament on March 4. The proposed changes include a ban on foreign funding, stricter regulations for journalists, and tighter control over media activities.
Critics argue that the new regulations could undermine media self-regulation and diminish trust in the National Communications Commission, which is set to expand its powers under the proposed changes.
