Georgia on Edge As 'Russian Law' Risks Halting Its European Dream While Putin Makes Gains in Ukraine

Introducing our new H2H contributor, Jim Stenman - who will be reporting for us from the ground in the Global South

By Jim Stenman, Tbilisi

In Tbilisi, Georgia, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is more than a distant crisis; it is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities shared by countries in Russia’s shadow.

With approximately 20% of its territory under Russian occupation, Georgia’s future feels intricately tied to the outcome of the war in Ukraine. A Russian victory in Ukraine, many fear, could spell disaster for Georgia and other nations in similar predicaments, including Moldova.

Recent developments have hinted that President Vladimir Putin might be open to negotiating a peace deal with Ukraine at a time when Russian troops have made gains in the Kharkiv region. However, it remains uncertain whether Ukraine is willing to engage in such negotiations.

Meanwhile, Georgia itself is experiencing significant domestic turmoil. In the past few weeks, protests have erupted and intensified. The source of the unrest is the introduction of a controversial “foreign agent” bill, introduced by the ruling party, which is controlled by a local billionaire with links to the Kremlin.

This proposed legislation would require individuals, companies, and NGOs receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as foreign agents.

Critics have denounced the bill as a “Russian law,” drawing parallels to legislation introduced in Russia over a decade ago. That law has been used to suppress freedom of expression and complicate the operations of NGOs. The European Union has expressed strong disapproval, declaring that the bill is incompatible with European values. This stance raises concerns that Georgia’s progress towards EU membership could be hindered.

Adding to the tension, the U.S. government has recently taken steps to impose sanctions on certain members of Georgia’s ruling party in response to the bill’s introduction. These sanctions underscore the international opposition to the legislation, which is still making its way through Parliament.

As the situation unfolds, the implications for Georgia are significant. The foreign agent bill could impact not only the country’s internal democratic dynamics but also its aspirations for deeper integration with Europe at a crucial time in its history.