Georgia Faces Backlash Over 'Foreign Agent' Bill Revival

The reintroduction of controversial legislation could threaten Georgia's EU aspirations amid widespread criticism and anticipated protests.

Georgia's ruling party, Georgian Dream, plans to reintroduce a controversial 'foreign agent' bill, requiring organizations with over 20% foreign funding to register as 'pursuing the interests of a foreign power'.
The bill, likened to Russian legislation, has sparked international and domestic criticism, including from the EU and pro-democracy groups in Georgia.
Mass protests are anticipated in response to the bill's revival, mirroring the large-scale demonstrations that led to its withdrawal last year.
Georgia's aspirations to join the EU could be jeopardized by the bill, amid concerns of democratic backsliding and the government's perceived pro-Russian stance.
The EU, while regretting the bill's reintroduction, has granted Georgia candidate status, indicating a strategic interest in integrating Georgia despite challenges.