**Parliament Passes Bill to Limit International Organization Involvement in Georgian Politics**
In a unanimous vote, the Georgian Parliament has adopted a legislative initiative by “Georgian Dream,” a major political party. The bill aims to restrict international organizations’ involvement in Georgian politics and tighten control over foreign grants.
According to the amendments, international organizations will no longer be allowed to organize public events such as lectures and seminars for political parties. This change applies to several laws, including the “Law on Political Associations of Citizens” and the “Law on Grants.”
**Government Approval Required for Foreign Grants**
The bill also introduces a new requirement for government approval before issuing foreign grants. Receiving a grant without such consent will be prohibited, and recipients may face liability. The Anti-Corruption Bureau will be responsible for monitoring the issuance and receipt of these grants.
Interestingly, there are exceptions to this rule. International sports associations, federations, and committees can continue to issue grants without government approval. Similarly, individual scholarships for education or scientific work outside Georgia are exempt from the new requirement.
**Commentary**
The adoption of this bill is a significant move by the Georgian government to assert control over foreign involvement in domestic politics. By limiting international organizations’ ability to host public events and regulating foreign grants, the government aims to reduce its dependence on external funding and influence.
This development comes at a time when concerns about foreign interference in Georgia’s democratic processes are growing. Critics argue that this move may undermine civil society and limit freedom of speech.
**Analysis**
The implications of this bill go beyond its immediate effects. By tightening control over foreign grants, the government is also limiting the ability of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to access funding for their activities. This may have a chilling effect on civil society and independent media in Georgia.
Furthermore, the exceptions made for international sports associations and individual scholarships suggest that the government is trying to balance its desire for control with the need to maintain some level of international cooperation.
As the bill moves forward, it will be essential to monitor how these provisions are implemented and whether they have an impact on Georgian politics and civil society.