Withdrawal of the bill “On Transparency of Foreign Influence” in Georgia

The Regional Expert Group on Migration and Health welcomes the decision to withdraw the bill “On Transparency of Foreign Influence” in the Parliament of Georgia

We express our deep respect to the representatives of civil society in Georgia, who were able to defend their right to express themselves and continue working for the wellbeing of Georgian society.

We are certain that “foreign agents” legislation is a repressive and excessive practice towards non-governmental organizations and media outlets that violates the right to freedom of assembly and expression.  We are in solidarity with our Georgian colleagues and international partners who raised their voices against the proposed legislation. We strongly hope that the legislative and executive authorities of Georgia will focus on creating new opportunities for civil society organizations and independent media as well as encouraging businesses to develop corporate social responsibility programs.