European Business Association Georgia (EBA) responds to the adoption of the draft bill On Transparency of Foreign Influence, noting that the bill not only undermines Georgia’s European Union aspiration but also poses a significant threat to them.
“On behalf of the Board Of Director s at the European Business Association (EBA), we are reaching out regarding the draft law “on Transparency of Foreign Influence” currently under review.
The bill not only undermines Georgia’s European Union membership aspirations but also poses a significant threat to them. Attaining EU membership stands as cornerstone for Georgia’s prosperity and security. However, the current proposal directly contradicts the fundamental norms and values upheld by the EU, thus impending Georgia’s advancement towards this crucial goal.
Furthermore, it is important to highlight that the bill carries the risk of perpetuating negative stereotypes against foreign investors and discouraging investments, which is indispensable for fostering Georgia’s economic development. As the largest European business community in Georgia, we have already received numerous negative feedbacks from European partners and foreign investors. Instead of fostering transparency, the bill deteriorates the reputation of the country and unfairly singles out civil society organizations and overlooks the necessity of addressing deficiencies in governance and financial reporting frameworks.
Our principle concern revolves around the potential; negative consequences from essential foreign aid initiatives and civil society groups in Georgia. When these efforts are labeled as merely serving “foreign power interests”, it undermines their legitimacy and puts them at risk o closure, hindering Georgia’s development and democratic progress significantly.
Considering the substantial adverse effect and its misalignment with EU values and international democratic norms, we kindly urge you to promptly reconsider and withdraw the proposed bill “, - the statement reads.
