Swedish minister voices concern over Georgia’s transparency bill as “restricting” civil society

Johan Forssell, the Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade of Sweden, on Tuesday raised alarm over Georgia’s foreign transparency bill, which he said could potentially restrict civil society in the country.

Expressing his apprehension during an official visit to Tbilisi, Forssell emphasized, “we cannot dictate to the Georgian government what to do, but we are deeply concerned about the implications of the proposed legislation.”

Forssell underscored Sweden’s support for Georgia’s aspirations to join the European family but cautioned against measures that could stifle the vital role of civil society in fostering democracy. “Such restrictions do not align with the collaborative spirit we seek and our firm stance on the importance of civil society,” he remarked.

During his visit, Forssell held discussions with Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili and is set to meet Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze after an ongoing exchange with the domestic opposition. 

“While refraining from imposing directives, it is imperative to convey our concerns regarding legislation that could curtail civil liberties,” Forssell stressed, reiterating Sweden’s steadfast friendship with Georgia.