EU Freezes Financial Support to Georgia Over New Law Critics Call “Undemocratic”
The European Union has taken a decisive step in halting its accession process with Georgia and freezing 30 million euros in financial support. This move comes after Georgia adopted a new law that critics claim will curtail democratic freedoms.
EU Ambassador’s Announcement
EU Ambassador Pawel Herczynski announced the decision on Tuesday, stating that the law on “foreign influence” passed by Georgia’s authorities has led to the bloc’s leaders halting the accession process and freezing financial support earmarked for Georgia’s Defense Ministry in 2024.
Background on the Law
The new law requires media organizations, non-governmental groups, and other non-profit organizations to register as “pursuing the interests of a foreign power” if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad. Critics have dubbed this bill as “the Russian law” due to its similarities with Moscow’s legislation aimed at stigmatizing independent media and organizations.
EU Officials’ Condemnation
EU officials have repeatedly condemned the law as undemocratic, stating that it would hinder Georgia’s path to EU membership. The bloc had previously demanded that Georgia fight disinformation, bring its foreign and security policies in line with the EU’s, and introduce new justice reforms before launching membership talks.
Georgian President’s Response
Georgia’s President Salome Zourabichvili has responded to the EU and US moves by saying they are “very difficult messages from two of our closest friends” that are “worth listening to.” She warned that Georgia must choose between having a secure European future or moving towards the Russian orbit.
Key Takeaways
- The EU has halted its accession process with Georgia and frozen 30 million euros in financial support.
- The new law on “foreign influence” passed by Georgia’s authorities is criticized as undemocratic.
- Critics claim the law will curb democratic freedoms and stigmatize independent media and organizations.
- EU officials have condemned the law, stating it would hinder Georgia’s path to EU membership.