OSCE raises alarm over Georgia’s Foreign Agents Law, warns of threats to civil society

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has voiced serious concerns over Georgia’s newly adopted Foreign Agents Registration Act, warning that the law could have a negative impact on civil society and human rights defenders.

“This law profoundly impacts the work of civil society and all those working to defend human rights,” said ODIHR Director Maria Telalian. “Civil society is vital to all democracies, and any new requirements should enhance their important work in line with international standards rather than imposing limitations.”

The law requires individuals and organizations receiving foreign funding to register as foreign agents, imposing sanctions for non-compliance. ODIHR warns that this could curtail the rights to freedom of association, peaceful assembly, and expression, further restricting the work of civil society groups.

ODIHR also pointed out that Georgia’s law differs significantly from the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), on which it is allegedly based. Unlike the US model, Georgia’s version lacks key legal safeguards that prevent the broad classification of civil society as foreign influence.

The OSCE office urged Georgian authorities to reconsider the implementation of the law, stressing that while transparency in lobbying is important, it must not infringe on fundamental democratic freedoms. ODIHR reaffirmed its readiness to assist Georgia in improving its legislative framework to align with international standards.