Georgia's Parliament Passes 'Foreign Agents' Measure Amid Protests and International Concerns

Georgia's Parliament approved a bill requiring NGOs and media funded by foreign sources to register as 'organizations carrying the interests of foreign power', sparking protests and concerns about civil society repression. Despite President Zourabichvili's intent to veto, the governing party has sufficient votes to override.

The legislation, resembling Russian laws, aims to increase transparency but is viewed as a potential alignment with Russia, jeopardizing Georgia's EU aspirations and democratic freedoms. Mass protests continue as the law is seen as a threat to civil society and local election observer organizations.