President Salome Zourabichvili of Georgia asserted on Wednesday that she would not permit the ruling Dream party to exploit her in efforts to salvage their reputation, following the passage of a foreign influence bill by the party on Tuesday. This legislation, widely criticized by the international community as resembling a “Russian law,” has ignited controversy both domestically and abroad.
The bill, now awaiting the president’s decision to sign or veto, has sparked immediate concern. Zourabichvili has previously indicated her intention to veto it, though the ruling party possesses the means to override such action.
In response to mounting pressure and speculation, Zourabichvili emphasized her commitment to the welfare of the nation, declaring her refusal to be used as a pawn in the ruling party’s image restoration efforts.
During a media briefing, the President’s Parliamentary Secretary, Giorgi Mskhiladze, refrained from disclosing the specifics of the impending veto but assured that it would be both technically and legally sound. When pressed about potential amendments to the bill, Mskhiladze reiterated that such alterations were off the table, stressing the forthcoming release of the Venice Commission’s report as integral to further deliberations.
Acknowledging the importance of the Venice Commission’s findings, Mskhiladze affirmed their willingness to consider its recommendations. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, addressing the press conference post-bill adoption, outlined procedural options for handling the President’s decision and expressed readiness for constructive dialogue post the commission’s report, expected by May 28th.
The bill, officially titled the “Transparency of Foreign Influence Bill,” mandates registration and annual financial disclosures for non-governmental and media entities receiving over 20 percent of their funding from foreign sources. Failure to comply would result in fines starting at 25 thousand GEL. While the ruling party insists the law aims at enhancing transparency, critics argue it could stifle organizations involved in human rights and anti-corruption efforts.
This legislative move represents the ruling party’s second attempt in a year to introduce such a law, following protests and subsequent withdrawal of a similar bill in March 2023. Demonstrations have persisted since April 2024, met with reported instances of law enforcement using force against activists and politicians, as documented by local human rights groups and Western nations.
