Media Freedom Groups Condemn Georgian Dream's Proposed Grant Restrictions
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, February 2, 2026
The International Press Institute (IPI) and partner organizations of the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) have sharply criticized the ruling Georgian Dream party for plans to impose stricter controls and penalties on recipients of foreign grants, warning that the measures could effectively block independent funding for journalists and civil society.
"The proposals significantly expand the definition of 'grant,' which would practically include any foreign funding related to public, political, or civic activities," the IPI said. "Media organizations and journalists receiving such grants without prior government approval could be punished with up to six years in prison." The legislation would also introduce harsher penalties for money laundering linked to domestic political activities, carrying sentences of 9 to 12 years.
The organizations warned that the proposals would worsen an already restrictive legal environment. "These latest proposals add to the alarming list of restrictive legislation adopted in 2025, undermining media freedom and civil society," the statement said. Monitoring by Media Freedom Maps shows 60 legal incidents in 2025, nearly double the previous year.
MFRR partners called the proposed changes incompatible with Georgia's obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights and the OSCE. "We welcome the activation of the OSCE's Moscow Mechanism to initiate an expert mission on the deteriorating human rights situation in Georgia," the statement said. "We call on Parliament to cancel these amendments and repeal existing repressive legislation, including the law on foreign agents and changes to grant and broadcasting rules. The EU and international community must respond firmly, including through targeted sanctions."
The statement was jointly issued by IPI, the European Federation of Journalists, Free Press Unlimited, the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom, and OBC Transeuropa.
