Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has defended the ruling party proposed legislation on NGO funding and media regulation, claiming both measures were “critical” for “preventing foreign interference” in Georgia’s political affairs.
Speaking to journalists, Kobakhidze emphasized the need for stricter oversight of NGOs, particularly those receiving foreign funding. “NGOs and their funding cannot be used as a mechanism for political intervention in the country,” he said, asserting that transparency laws were necessary to “safeguard Georgia’s sovereignty”.
The PM further referenced allegations that international organizations, including USAID and the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), had been “involved in efforts to influence political processes” in various countries, including Georgia. “In such conditions, there is no alternative to the transparency of NGOs,” he added.
In addition to the NGO bill, the ruling Georgian Dream party has introduced a media regulation law aimed at “defining and enforcing standards of objectivity.” Kobakhidze argued that while journalistic standards existed, Georgia currently lacked institutional mechanisms to ensure compliance.
“After the adoption of the new law, we will have both standards and institutional mechanisms for implementing the standards,” he said, reaffirming that Parliament will proceed with the bill in a timely manner.
The proposed legislation would limit foreign funding for broadcasters and expand the National Communications Commission’s authority to oversee media operations. Additionally, it includes provisions restricting broadcasters from earning revenue through social advertising.
Opposition groups and media watchdogs have raised concerns that the proposed laws could be used to suppress independent journalism and civil society organizations.
