USAID condemns Georgian parliament’s passage of foreign influence legislation

Samantha Power, Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), on Wednesday strongly condemned the recent vote in the Georgian Parliament in favor of the controversial foreign influence legislation.

She stressed the legislation, which has drawn widespread criticism, was seen as a threat to Georgia’s vibrant civil society and independent media. Power expressed concern that this move could hinder the delivery of essential services to the Georgian people by organizations working on the ground to promote democratic governance and economic growth.

The Administrator highlighted the potential consequences of the law on Georgia’s aspirations for further integration into the European Union, echoing sentiments expressed by the EU. Additionally, Power emphasized the jeopardy this legislation posed to the longstanding bilateral partnership between the United States and Georgia, which she said had been built on shared values and a commitment to democracy since the early 1990s. 

Over the years, USAID has contributed nearly $2 billion in assistance to Georgia as part of this partnership, the official added. 

Calling for restraint and non-violence from all parties involved, Power urged the Government of Georgia to redirect its focus towards addressing the pressing needs of the Georgian people.