The U.S. Congressional Foreign Affairs Committee adopted a “MEGOBARI Act” or Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia’s Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence Act regarding Georgia with 41 votes.
The bill requires reports and certain actions for Georgia.
Key Provisions of the MEGOBARI Act are as follows:
Supporting Democracy and Rule of Law: The Act declares U.S. policy to defend democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law in Georgia. It acknowledges the significant progress made by Georgian civil society and emphasizes the importance of consolidating democracy for regional stability and U.S. interests.
Addressing Democratic Backsliding: In response to recent democratic decline in Georgia, the Act calls for increased scrutiny of the Georgian government’s actions and its ties to Russia and other authoritarian regimes.
Reporting and Sanctions: The Act mandates several reports to ensure accountability:
Improper Influence and Sanctions Evasion: Reports on corrupt practices in Georgia that support Russian interests and sanctions evasion.
Russian Intelligence Assets: Assessment of Russian intelligence penetration in Georgia and potential Chinese cooperation.
Sanctions on Georgian Individuals: Identification and imposition of sanctions and travel bans on individuals undermining democracy in Georgia.
Establishing a Democracy Monitoring Task Force: A task force will be set up to monitor and promote a democratic environment in Georgia, especially during elections, to ensure fair and free electoral processes.
Enhancing Bilateral Relations and Support: Upon certification of significant democratic progress in Georgia, the Act outlines further U.S. assistance, including:
* Negotiating a more preferential trade agreement with Georgia.
* Enhancing people-to-people exchanges and visa simplification.
* Developing an economic and modernization package.
* Providing security and defense support to counter Russian aggression.
