New State Law Puts Churches At Risk
The Georgian government has recently implemented a controversial law known as the Foreign Influence Transparency Law, which critics argue targets churches, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and independent media. Effective since June 3 despite significant public opposition, the law mandates that any organization receiving more than one-fifth of its funding from international sources must disclose detailed personal and financial information in a public register. Failure to comply can result in substantial fines, starting at 25,000 lari ($8,945), escalating with continued non-compliance.
Giorgi Meladze, a law professor at Ilia State University, expressed concerns about the law’s impact on smaller religious communities and labeled it as a tool aimed at suppressing dissenting voices and minorities. He criticized the lack of broader consultation and rushed adoption process, suggesting it marginalized affected groups, including religious minorities.
The law requires organizations to disclose not only financial data but also personal information about their staff, including religious beliefs, raising alarms about privacy and government oversight. Critics, such as Rev. Zaal Tkeshelashvili from the Evangelical Church of Georgia, fear that the vague wording and broad interpretative powers given to authorities could lead to intrusive surveillance and undue interference in private and religious affairs.
Despite widespread protests and international criticism, including calls from the UN and European bodies to withdraw the law, the Georgian Parliament moved forward with its adoption. Supporters of the law, including parliamentary chairman Shalva Papuashvili, argue that it enhances transparency and prevents covert foreign influence in Georgian political and social affairs. However, critics assert that the law’s real intent is to tighten state control over civil society and curtail freedoms of expression, association, and religion.
The Foreign Influence Transparency Law has drawn comparisons to similar legislation in Russia, known as the Foreign Agents Law, prompting concerns about Georgia’s trajectory toward restricting fundamental rights. Experts and international observers warn that such laws undermine democratic principles and pose significant threats to human rights, particularly freedom of expression and privacy.
In response to international outcry and domestic dissent, debates continue within Georgia over the law’s implications for civil liberties and democratic governance. The controversy surrounding its adoption highlights ongoing tensions between state security interests, transparency, and the protection of fundamental freedoms in the country.