Estonian Parliament Urges Sanctions Against Georgian Government and Law Enforcement Officials
By Liza Mchedlidze
Wednesday, June 12, 2024
The Estonian parliament has issued a statement condemning the recent adoption of a "Foreign Agents" law by the majority of the Georgian parliament, asserting that it contravenes European values. The statement garnered support from 57 MPs, with 13 opposing it.
The statement highlights that the law draws inspiration from the Russian Federation's "Foreign Agents" law, utilized by Putin's regime to suppress civil society, media, and political opposition.
Calling on the Government of Georgia, the Parliament of Estonia urges an end to violence against rally participants, the civil sector, and opposition representatives. It demands a thorough legal investigation into violence against peaceful demonstrators and emphasizes the importance of upholding human rights, the rule of law, and implementing EU-agreed reforms as prerequisites for accession talks.
Estonia deems it necessary to suspend Georgia's EU accession negotiations, halt development cooperation with state agencies, and redirect funds to support civil society until the crisis is resolved, reforms are reinstated, and the "Foreign Agents" law is repealed.
Riigikogu urges the Council of the European Union to impose sanctions on Bidzina Ivanishvili, Georgian government members, and Parliament, including a ban on EU entry.
Estonian Parliament intends to propose EU sanctions against Georgian security forces and law enforcement involved in suppressing peaceful protests and repressing opposition and civil society. If this proposal fails, Riigikogu recommends Estonia enforce national sanctions, including a ban on entry into the country, against the aforementioned individuals.
Moreover, the Estonian Parliament supports suspending the EU-Georgia visa regime until the "Foreign Agents" law is repealed.
