Media Freedom Coalition statement on Transparency Law in Georgia

The undersigned members of the Media Freedom Coalition (MFC) express their deep concern about the declining freedom of media in Georgia.

The recently adopted Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence poses a threat to the democratic fabric of Georgia. Organisations that receive more than 20% of their funding from foreign sources will be required to register as organisations that “pursue the interest of a foreign power”. This would affect many media and NGOs that play a vital role in civic engagement, promoting human rights and good governance, and advocating for Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration. This “foreign influenced” label coupled with the potential for stringent financial fines and penalties will severely undermine their operations and have negative repercussions on freedom of expression.

This is worrying for the future of democracy in Georgia including the upcoming Georgian parliamentary elections. Independent, critical journalism is an essential foundation of a free, inclusive and democratic society. Creating and maintaining an environment for civil society organisations and organisations that safeguard media freedom is at the core of democracy.

Furthermore, we are deeply alarmed by the continuing threats, physical assaults, and destruction of property which journalists and civil society representatives working in Georgia have experienced recently. We condemn all intimidation and violence against the free press and civil society, which remain indispensable to an effective and stable democracy.

The member countries of the MFC will always defend freedom of expression and media freedom. The undersigned members stand with the Georgian independent media and civil society organisations, and will continue to support their pursuit of a democratic future and aspirations for integration with European and Euro-Atlantic institutions.