Georgian Parliament official: no one can convince Georgians that laws strengthening sovereignty mean democratic backsliding

Irakli Kirtskhalia, the Deputy Chair of the ruling Georgian Dream party faction in the legislative body, on Wednesday responded to the Council of Europe’s expert opinion on the domestic Foreign Agents Registration Act, insisting that all laws enacted in Georgia were serving the country’s sovereignty and security.

Kirtzkhalia criticised what he described as “double standards” from Georgia’s Western partners, arguing that concerns raised about the legislation were based on “illusions and false perceptions”.

“We have long moved beyond the notion of double standards. In recent years, what we are dealing with is a complete lack of standards. We have explained many times to our so-called friends that any law operating within our legislative framework serves our sovereignty, security, proper development, and economic well-being. Our so-called friends should understand this very well”, the ruling party MP said.

He added that Georgian society clearly recognises attempts to portray the law as undemocratic.

“Interpretations, illusions, and false perceptions are part of their scenario and their action plan. The Georgian public knows this very well. Therefore, no one can convince the people that any law or action which strengthens sovereignty, independence, and economic progress could represent democratic backsliding in Georgia”, he concluded.

The Council of Europe’s Venice Commission experts released their assessment of the Foreign Agents Registration Act earlier this week. According to the opinion, the measures outlined in the act would have a significant impact on freedom of assembly and several other fundamental rights. The experts recommended that the law be withdrawn and that no further steps be taken toward its enforcement.