Georgia’s Parliament passes ruling party initiative to reintroduce treason law in second reading

Georgia’s Parliament on Tuesday passed a controversial proposal to reintroduce the crime of treason into the country’s criminal law in its second reading.

The initiative, which adds Article 307¹ to the Criminal Code, was approved by 85 votes in favor during a plenary session.

The new article outlines criminal liability for acts of treason committed by Georgian citizens or stateless individuals residing in the country. It defines treason as actions including violations of Georgia’s territorial integrity, engaging in unconstitutional agreements or negotiations, compromising external security, espionage, sabotage, and aiding foreign entities in hostile activities, among other offenses.

While these acts were already punishable under various existing provisions of the Criminal Code, the new law consolidates them under a specific category of treason.

The proposal was introduced by members of the ruling Georgian Dream faction and the People’s Power political group. Supporters argue that it strengthens national security, while critics express concerns about potential overreach.