Assistance on Hold

Two months after the Georgian parliament, controlled by the ruling Georgian Dream (GD) party, passed its controversial Foreign Agents Law, the US State Department has again responded. Washington, which sees the legislation as yet another of Tbilisi’s recent anti-democratic steps, is pausing $95 million in assistance.

The law, which mirrors a Russian statute, requires nongovernmental organizations and media outlets to register funding from international sources. Those that receive such funding would be labeled “foreign agents”.

The United States initially reacted to the legislation by imposing sanctions on GD officials involved in its passage. Washington’s second measure now freezes government support. It has no direct impact on Georgian citizens. Aid to civil society and other critical programs meant to strengthen Georgia’s democracy and economy is unaffected.

Washington’s move aligns with proposed legislation such as the MEGOBARI Act, which follows a carrot-and-stick approach. If Georgia’s October parliamentary election is fair, characterized by unencumbered civil society and media activity, and balanced campaign financing, the country could be rewarded with more economic assistance, strengthened trade links, and easier access to US visas. This sign of goodwill is meant to encourage Tbilisi to safeguard the Georgian people’s interest in democratic advancement and Euro-Atlantic integration. Should Georgia continue on its path in the other direction, however, sanctions will be imposed and aid withheld.

It looks now as if the conduct in the election may fall into a gray zone. The vote will likely be free, but government interference is threatening fairness.

Given the importance of the election for Georgia’s future, the State Department’s additional action is welcome even if it should have included clear and credible promises of deeper assistance that would accompany improved electoral integrity. Georgians deserve a free and fair process.

^{The views expressed herein are those of the author alone.}