The Foreign Agents Law Has Come Into Force in Georgia

Controversial Foreign Agents Law Takes Effect in Georgia

As reported by TUT.AZ with reference to "Sputnik-Georgia", a new legislative act "On Registration of Foreign Agents" has come into force in the country, significantly expanding the range of persons falling under the status of foreign agent and providing for criminal liability for violation of its requirements.

Now foreign agents will include not only organizations with foreign funding, but also representatives of foreign authorities, political parties, persons living abroad, advertising agents with political activity, employees of information services, as well as individuals and legal entities acting as advisors to foreign organizations.

The law also applies to those engaged in fundraising for foreign entities. At the same time, the document provides exceptions for Georgian broadcasting companies, media outlets, and associations officially registered in the country.

Serious penalties are provided for violations of the new law's requirements – from 1,800 to 3,600 US dollars.