Georgian ruling party pushes for stricter grant law, requiring government approval for foreign funding

First deputy chairman of the Georgian Dream - Democratic Georgia ruling party’s faction Irakli Kirtskhalia has said that the ruling party initiated proposed amendments to the country’s grant law.

The goal is that Georgian citizens or organisations cannot receive foreign funding without prior government approval, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media.

Kirtskhalia explained that grants, by their nature, are resources provided free of charge with the intent of strengthening the state's sovereignty and security. 

He emphasized the necessity of introducing a regulation requiring the consent of the Georgian government or an authorized official or body before grants can be received. This measure aims to prevent foreign forces from financing campaigns that could destabilise the country, such as those promoting violence or destructive activities. The proposed changes will not impact funds allocated for overseas studies or scientific research, nor will it affect sports associations. The law is expected to be passed in an expedited manner.

Kirtskhalia also noted that the Anti-Corruption Bureau of Georgia will oversee the allocation of grants. Under the new regulations, recipients who accept foreign funds without government approval will face a penalty double the amount of the grant received. 

On April 1, the Georgian parliament passed a law on foreign agents, which is an exact replica of the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). As opposed to the "Foreign Influence Transparency Act" passed last year, this new law introduces criminal liability and applies to individuals. Additionally, on the same day, the parliament adopted amendments to the broadcasting law, establishing new standards for presenting information on television.

By Naila Huseynova