**Georgia’s Civil Society Under Threat: Transparency International Speaks Out**
In a strongly worded statement, Transparency International has condemned recent legislative amendments to Georgia’s Law on Grants, warning that these changes pose a direct threat to the country’s civil society. The international organization expressed solidarity with its local chapter, TI Georgia, and other civil society groups in the country, urging the ruling Georgian Dream party to withdraw the proposed changes and repeal all previously adopted restrictive laws.
**Restrictive Laws Undermining Democracy**
The amendments, which were presented as measures to protect national interests, risk severely limiting public oversight and civic participation – key pillars of an accountable and transparent government. Transparency International warned that restrictions on foreign funding for independent organizations would undermine anti-corruption efforts and create conditions where abuse of power can go unchecked.
**Broader Pattern of Democratic Backsliding**
The statement comes amid a broader pattern of democratic backsliding in Georgia, where a decade-long consolidation of power by the Georgian Dream party has led to the institutionalization of corruption. Transparency International noted that state institutions have fallen under one-party control, and independent civil society, media, and opposition groups are now being targeted.
**TI Georgia Under Fire**
TI Georgia, which has long been a leading voice exposing state capture, systemic corruption, and electoral manipulation, has faced persistent targeting as a result of its work. Transparency International noted that the organization’s efforts to expose these issues have been met with resistance from the ruling party, which now seeks to silence organizations like TI Georgia through repressive laws.
**Conclusion**
The proposed amendments to Georgia’s Law on Grants are a clear threat to the country’s democratic governance and rule of law. As Transparency International has warned, these changes risk severely limiting public oversight and civic participation, creating conditions where abuse of power can go unchecked. It is imperative that the ruling Georgian Dream party withdraws these proposals and repeals all previously adopted restrictive laws.
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