**Georgian Dream Moves to Restrict Foreign Support for Political Parties**
The Georgian Dream (GD) party has proposed changes to the country’s Law on Political Associations of Citizens, which would prohibit political parties from receiving in-kind foreign support for holding lectures, seminars, and other public events. This move is seen as an effort by GD to consolidate power and limit the influence of opposition parties.
Under the current law, political parties are not allowed to receive foreign funding, but exceptions are made for in-kind contributions from international organizations and legal entities that promote the “institutional development” of parties. The proposed amendments would eliminate these exceptions, making it impossible for political parties to receive any form of support from abroad.
This move is a significant blow to opposition parties, which often rely on foreign funding to organize events and activities. By restricting this type of support, GD is effectively limiting the ability of opposition parties to compete with them in elections.
**GD Also Introduces Amendments to Law on Grants**
In parallel, GD has also introduced amendments to the country’s Law on Grants, which would require international donors to obtain the consent of the GD government before awarding grants to local organizations. This move is seen as an attempt by GD to exert control over foreign funding and limit the influence of independent civil society organizations.
**Impact on Democracy**
The proposed changes are likely to have a significant impact on democracy in Georgia, which has been praised for its progress in recent years. The restrictions on foreign support for political parties and civil society organizations could limit the ability of opposition voices to be heard, leading to a further polarization of the country’s politics.
**Commentary**
“This is a clear attempt by GD to consolidate power and limit the influence of opposition parties,” said Tamar Khutsrishvili, an expert on Georgian politics. “By restricting foreign support for political parties, GD is effectively limiting their ability to compete with them in elections.”
“It’s also worth noting that these changes are being introduced in a one-party parliament, which makes it difficult for the opposition to challenge them,” added Khutsrishvili.
**Read More**
To learn more about this story and its implications for democracy in Georgia, read our full article: Read More
Read More @ civil.ge