**Controversial Law Raises Concerns Over Civil Society in Georgia**
The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has expressed concern over the Georgian parliament’s adoption of a Foreign Agents Registration Act, also known as FARA. This law could severely restrict the activities of civil society organizations in the country.
**Lack of Safeguards**
The ODIHR noted that while the Georgian law is modeled after its US counterpart, it lacks critical legal safeguards present in the American legislation. The US law ensures that private companies or non-profits taking part in advocacy or lobbying efforts on behalf of a foreign power register with the authorities and make this information publicly available.
**Restrictive Impact**
In contrast, the GD’s enacted law could further curtail the activities of civil society organizations and human rights defenders by removing necessary safeguards for them to carry out their work. The statement cautioned against importing legislation from one country to another without careful consideration of the national institutional and legal framework.
**International Backlash**
The ODIHR’s concerns echo broader domestic and international criticism over the law. Over 100 Georgian civil society organizations (CSOs) have condemned it as a “repackaged Russian law” targeting independent media. Human Rights Watch has denounced the law, warning that it criminalizes civil society groups and violates universal human rights norms.
**Call for Reconsideration**
The ODIHR has called on the Georgian authorities to reconsider implementing this legislative initiative and reiterated the need for careful reassessment of the law. The organization is willing to assist in improving Georgia’s legislative framework through legal reviews and other advisory services based on its expertise.
**Contextualizing the Concerns**
This controversy comes amidst a broader trend of restricting civil liberties and dissenting voices in Georgia. The country has seen a surge in laws targeting independent media, opposition groups, and human rights defenders. This move by the Georgian parliament only adds to concerns that the government is increasingly trying to suppress civil society’s ability to advocate for democratic values.
**The Role of International Organizations**
In this scenario, international organizations like ODIHR play a crucial role in providing expertise and assistance to governments on how to create laws that uphold human rights. The fact that they have expressed concerns over Georgia’s FARA highlights the need for careful consideration when borrowing legislation from other countries.