European funding in Georgia faces tight government watch, says Commissioner

European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos has emphasized that the Georgian government is closely monitoring the allocation of European Union funds to civil society organizations in the country.

Kos underlined the importance of ensuring that financial support reaches the intended recipients responsibly, Caliber.Az reports, citing Georgian media.

“The Georgian government is paying very close attention to whom we give money,” Kos stated.

She acknowledged the challenges involved but noted that EU financial assistance to civil society in Georgia has doubled and is set to increase further. “We are currently exploring ways to transfer funds without causing any harm to the recipients,” she added.

The remarks come against the backdrop of Georgia’s recent legislation on “foreign agents,” which restricts NGOs from receiving foreign grants without prior government approval.

 By Vafa Guliyeva