Georgian Parliament adopts amendments to organic law on political unions of citizens in final reading

The Parliament of Georgia on Wednesday adopted amendments to the organic law on political unions of citizens in its third and final reading, with 80 MPs voting in favour. The amendments were passed through an expedited procedure.

The legislative initiative, introduced by the ruling Georgian Dream party, was presented during the plenary session by Irakli Kirtskhalia, the Deputy Chair of the ruling Georgian Dream party faction in the legislative body.

Key provisions of the amendments include restrictions on indirect donations.

Political parties or individuals with declared electoral goals will be prohibited from receiving donations in the form of lectures, seminars, or other similar public events from both domestic and foreign legal entities or associations.

Under the new provisions, any grant from foreign sources must receive prior approval from the Government of Georgia or an authorised body/person designated by the Government.

Monitoring of grant reception and compliance with the law will fall under the responsibility of the Anti-Corruption Bureau.

The law stipulates that funds transferred free of charge, whether in monetary or in-kind form, will be considered grants if they align with the characteristics of a grant, and thus will also be subject to the new regulations.