Germany’s foreign office on transparency bill: Georgian Gov’t responsible not to willfully obstruct country’s European future

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Germany has issued a response to the ongoing protests in Georgia, prompted by the foreign transparency bill, proposed by the country’s ruling party in parliament, pointing to potential harm for Tbilisi’s European aspirations. 

“Thousands in Georgia protest every night for free speech and a vibrant civil society. EU candidate status represents a historical opportunity. The Georgian government has a responsibility not to willfully obstruct the country’s path to a European future”, said the foreign official on its social media account.

Despite repeated protest actions, the Georgian Parliament proceeded with the first reading of the “Law on transparency of foreign influence” on April 17, 2024. The Parliament has slated May 17 as the anticipated date for the final, third reading of the law.

Critics from Georgia’s partner countries and international organizations have raised concerns that the so-called “law of agents” could impede the country’s European integration efforts. Meanwhile, the ruling party contends that the law aligns with European standards.