NGO Transparency International Georgia has criticized legislative amendments proposed by the ruling Georgian Dream party, calling them a direct assault on press freedom and a clear attempt to eliminate independent media voices in the country. The two legislative packages, introduced on February 24, seek to ban foreign funding for broadcasters and tighten state control over media content, raising concerns about censorship and government overreach.
In a statement released on February 25, the NGO says that one of the most alarming aspects of the proposed legislation is the prohibition of direct or indirect financial assistance from foreign entities to media organizations. Under the amendments, broadcasters would no longer be able to receive funding, equipment, or training from foreign donors—except in the form of commercial advertising, sponsorships, and product placements.
Transparency International Georgia argues that this move is designed to cripple critical media financially, as independent broadcasters in Georgia already struggle due to the limited advertising market and growing political pressure.
“The ruling party is fully aware that independent broadcasters rely on international support to survive. By cutting off this lifeline, the government is ensuring that only pro-government media can operate freely,” the organization said in a statement.
The new restrictions also broaden the definition of a “foreign power,” classifying any international donor, foundation, organization, or even individuals who are not Georgian citizens as foreign entities. The statement underlines that this step effectively shuts down any external support for independent journalism, limiting media funding to domestic sources that are often under government influence.
The second legislative package expands the role of the Communications Regulatory Commission, a body that Transparency International Georgia and other watchdogs have repeatedly accused of bias in favor of the government. Under the new amendments, the Commission would have the power to review complaints related to accuracy, fairness, and privacy violations in media content.
Previously, these complaints were handled through a self-regulation mechanism within the broadcasters themselves, ensuring editorial independence. Under the new rules, complaints can now be filed directly with the Communications Commission, effectively bypassing self-regulation and increasing state control over media narratives.
“This is nothing less than an attempt to introduce censorship,” Transparency International Georgia warned. “The ruling party is shifting media oversight away from independent bodies and placing it in the hands of a state-controlled entity. The ultimate goal is clear—intimidate critical media with the constant threat of fines, license revocations, and legal harassment.”
Under the proposed amendments, the Commission would have the authority to fine media outlets up to 3% of their annual revenue for alleged violations, with the possibility of suspending or even revoking broadcasting licenses.
The legislation also includes vague new rules on “fairness” and “impartiality,” which critics argue will be used as a tool for political interference in media content. One provision states that broadcasters must not present political or social issues with a “biased personal stance” or express support or opposition to any political party or organization.
“This provision essentially allows the government to dictate what can and cannot be said in news coverage,” said a media rights advocate. “Any critical reporting can now be labeled as ‘biased’ and punished under these new rules. This is a blatant attack on journalistic freedom.”
Another concerning element of the bill involves restrictions on media access to public institutions. Journalists would need explicit permission from authorities to record video or audio on government premises unless they can justify it as being in the “public interest.” Critics argue that this clause is deliberately vague, allowing authorities to arbitrarily deny journalists access to crucial information.
“Public institutions are funded by taxpayers, and journalists have a right to report on their activities. This provision is clearly designed to obstruct investigative journalism and limit scrutiny of government actions,” Transparency International Georgia stated.
The NGO believes these legislative changes are part of a broader strategy to dismantle independent media, weaken Western influence, and create a media landscape dominated by pro-government and pro-Russian narratives. The organization notes that, in recent years, the ruling party has systematically attacked critical media through legal harassment, physical threats against journalists, and regulatory pressure.
“The Georgian Dream government is taking a dangerous step toward authoritarianism,” the organization warned. “By silencing independent broadcasters, they are creating an information vacuum that will be filled with state propaganda and disinformation. This not only threatens democracy but also serves the interests of anti-Western forces in the region.”
Transparency International Georgia urges international partners, media watchdogs, and human rights organizations to take immediate action before the amendments are passed into law.
“We call on Georgia’s strategic allies, including the European Union and the United States, to condemn these actions and pressure the government to withdraw these repressive measures,” the statement concluded.
