**Parliament Passes Changes to Exclude NGOs from Decision-Making**
The Georgian Parliament has passed a legislative package that will change the way non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are involved in public decision-making.
This means that many laws will no longer require NGOs to participate in the process. The changes affect 14 different laws and were proposed by the ruling party “Georgian Dream” and “People’s Power”.
Under current rules, NGOs had a say in selecting certain candidates for important positions. For example, they helped choose members of the Prosecutorial Council and the Disciplinary Collegium of Judges of Common Courts. They also participated in choosing the Public Defender of Consumer Interests at the National Regulatory Authority.
**Concerns about Foreign Funding**
The ruling party argues that NGOs are often funded from abroad and may prioritize foreign interests over those of Georgian citizens. This, they say, can undermine national sovereignty and democratic transparency.
While NGOs should have a voice in social processes, their mandatory involvement in state policy development and public decision-making may pose risks to the country‘s well-being.
**Changes Ahead**
The new laws will exclude NGOs from participating in the selection process for important positions like the Prosecutorial Council and the Public Defender of Consumer Interests. The authors of the bill argue that this is necessary to protect the interests of Georgian citizens.
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