New Grants Law stabilized Georgia by curbing 'foreign-funded extremism' - PM

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze claims that Georgia has become more stable and peaceful following the enforcement of the controversial Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence, often referred to as the "grants law." He argues that restrictions introduced by the law have reduced funding for extremist groups and helped ease tensions in the country.

Speaking on Adjara Public Broadcaster program, Kobakhidze stated that under the new regulations, the flow of funds supporting extremism has decreased, leading to greater societal calm.

The Prime Minister further accused various Western institutions and governments of previously funding what he described as “extremist and revolutionary movements” in Georgia. He specifically mentioned USAID and the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), citing claims by the “new US administration” that such funds were used to instigate revolutions in various countries, including Georgia.

He also named the Franklin Club and Academy of the Future as “radical extremist groups” allegedly financed from foreign sources, with the goal of mobilizing youth in anti-government activities. According to Kobakhidze, European foundations such as the EED (European Endowment for Democracy) and other national funds continue to support these initiatives, which he attributes to the influence of the “global war party” and the so-called “deep state.”

Kobakhidze also said that the UK Embassy had disclosed intentions to fund groups in Georgia that his government considers extremist, stating, “They were openly promoting radicalization.” He added that under the grants law, the Georgian government rejected such funding.

“These restrictions have directly contributed to stabilizing the country. The public sees the result — less funding means less extremism,” he said.

Regarding the legislation’s content, Kobakhidze insisted it is modeled directly on US law, dismissing criticism from European officials as dishonest. “Let them point to a single sentence that wasn’t copied from the American version. They can’t, they lie,” he said, claiming that some EU representatives were misleading the public.

He concluded that the law is already having a tangible impact: “Today, extremists can no longer radicalize the public on the same scale. The extremist flank is practically dead. They gather 50 to 100 people a day — that’s all. They are discrediting themselves.”