Georgia's parliament approved the first reading of a bill on 'foreign agents' that has sparked protests, seen as authoritarian and Russian-inspired. The bill would require organizations receiving over 20% of funding from abroad to register as agents of foreign influence.
Key Points
Bill requires organizations receiving over 20% of funding from abroad to register as foreign agents
Critics compare it to Russian law used to suppress dissent
Opposition groups, civil society, and international bodies like the EU oppose the bill
Pros
Promotes transparency in funding sources
Combats influence of 'pseudo-liberal values' imposed by foreigners
Cons
Seen as authoritarian and Russian-inspired
Increases divisions in an already polarized Georgia