OSCE Office for Human Rights Raises Concerns Over Georgia's Foreign Agents Law
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, April 3, 2025
The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has issued a statement expressing concerns over Georgia's new Foreign Agents Registration Act, warning of its potential negative impact on civil society.
According to ODIHR, the law requires individuals and organizations that receive foreign funding to register as foreign agents and imposes sanctions for non-compliance. The office states that this adds to concerns about other recent legislative measures and could significantly affect civil society organizations and human rights defenders.
"This law profoundly impacts the work of civil society and all those working to defend human rights," said ODIHR Director Maria Telalian. "Civil society is vital to all democracies, and any new requirements should enhance their important work in line with international standards rather than imposing limitations."
The newly adopted law is intended to replace the Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence, which was passed last year. ODIHR notes that while the new legislation is modeled after the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), the American law includes legal safeguards that prevent civil society organizations from being labeled as foreign agents simply for receiving foreign funding. Instead, FARA focuses on ensuring transparency in lobbying and advocacy efforts on behalf of foreign entities.
ODIHR emphasizes that importing legal frameworks from one country to another should be done cautiously and within the context of national institutional and legal frameworks. The office warns that the law could restrict freedom of association, peaceful assembly, and expression.
In its statement, ODIHR calls on Georgian authorities to reconsider the implementation of the law and offers its assistance in reviewing and improving Georgia's legislative framework. The office highlights that all OSCE participating states have committed to upholding fundamental rights, including freedom of assembly and association, and recognizing the role of civil society in democracy and the rule of law.
"While the regulation of lobbying activities can help ensure transparency and integrity in decision-making, such measures must respect fundamental rights and not limit political and public participation," the statement concludes.
ODIHR remains open to providing legal guidance and expert advice to Georgian authorities to ensure that legislation aligns with international democratic standards.
