**Democracy Under Threat: The Dark Side of Civil Society**
In a powerful statement on social media, Shalva Papuashvili, the Speaker of the Georgian Parliament, has warned that democracy cannot be consolidated through dirty methods. He is right to sound the alarm about the growing threat posed by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that spread hatred and incite violence.
The recent incidents outside the home of Tea Tsulukiani, a Deputy Speaker of the Parliament, are a stark reminder of this danger. Activists from the radical opposition gathered late at night, insulting and threatening her and her family members, including a young child. This is not an isolated incident; the head of an opposition NGO had earlier wished death for Tea Tsulukiani on social media using the harshest possible terms.
**The Hate Media Menace**
Papuashvili’s comparison between these NGOs and “Radio of the Thousand Hills,” the hate media that played a key role in the genocide in Rwanda 30 years ago, is both stark and disturbing. The hate speech of these groups has become a daily occurrence, and under the guise of freedom of speech, they incite political polarization and strive for civil confrontation.
**Foreign Funding: A Double Standard**
The problem goes beyond the actions of these NGOs; it’s also about the foreign funding that supports them. These organizations receive generous grants from donors who rhetorically proclaim their commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. However, their favorite grant recipients act as main disruptors of social cohesion, democratic consolidation, and constructive political engagement.
It’s impossible to fund terror and deny responsibility at the same time. The new trend of foreign diplomats visiting groups engaged in street violence and hate campaigns only fuels the sense of disorganization within these groups.
**A Call for Accountability**
Papuashvili is right to call out the hypocrisy of donors who continue to support such groups despite their destructive actions. Democracy cannot be consolidated through dirty means, and NGOs that spread hatred and incite violence cannot be considered civil society.
As we reflect on this situation, it’s clear that a new approach is needed. One that prioritizes accountability, transparency, and constructive engagement in the democratic process.
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