Georgian Officials Face Travel Bans in the US for Threatening Democracy
The move comes in response to Tbilisi’s recent adoption of a law that targets perceived foreign influence, with critics calling it undemocratic and influenced by Russia. Washington has imposed visa restrictions on numerous Georgian officials following the enactment of the “Transparency of Foreign Influence Law.” This legislation requires organizations that receive over 20% of their funding from abroad to register as “organizations pursuing foreign interests.” Supporters argue that the law is crucial to safeguard Georgia from malign foreign influences masked as “civil society” and protect national sovereignty from foreign-imposed “pseudo-liberal values.” However, opponents fear that the law will suppress free speech, hinder Georgia’s EU membership prospects, and have organized large demonstrations against it. Several Western countries, including the EU, the US, Britain, and France, have urged Georgia to repeal the law. The EU’s foreign policy chief warned that the law could harm Georgia’s bid for EU membership. The US has expressed deep concern over the legislation, likening it to a “Kremlin-style” law. Georgia’s deputy prime minister criticized Washington’s actions as a mistake, warning of potential further consequences. Past efforts by the ruling party to pass similar legislation were abandoned due to public protests, with Russia alleging foreign influence in the demonstrations. The US denounced Russia’s claims as disinformation and is working with partners to combat such tactics.
