Georgia’s leadership clash over vetoed “Russian law” amid Independence Day celebrations

On Independence Day, the President and Prime Minister of Georgia clashed over a controversial “Russian law”, highlighting deep political divisions in the country. This annual celebration marks Georgia’s independence from the Russian Empire, but this year’s festivities were overshadowed by a contentious piece of legislation that has sparked significant debate.

President Salome Zourabichvili used the occasion to emphasize the importance of European partnerships in preserving Georgia’s independence. “Today, as the specter of Russia looms over us, partnership and rapprochement with Europe are the true path to preserving and strengthening our independence and peace”, Zourabichvili stated. She warned that undermining this path threatens the country’s future in the free and democratic world.

In stark contrast, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze defended the government’s stance, asserting that it was safeguarding Georgia’s sovereignty. “It was the unity and reasonable steps of the people and their elected government that gave us the opportunity to maintain peace in the country for the past two years despite existential threats and multiple betrayals, including the betrayal of the President of Georgia,” Kobakhidze countered.

The legislation in question, passed by the Georgian parliament earlier this month, mandates that media, non-governmental organizations, and other non-profits register as ‘pursuing the interests of a foreign power’ if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad. This bill has faced widespread opposition in Georgia, where it has been labeled the “Russian law” due to its resemblance to legislation enacted by Moscow in 2022. Critics argue that the law could stifle free speech and jeopardize Georgia’s aspirations of joining the European Union.

Public sentiment against the bill is strong, with many Georgians fearing it could derail their country’s EU membership prospects. Georgia has been an official candidate for EU membership since last year, and support for this membership remains high among the population.

Internationally, the bill has also drawn significant criticism. The Venice Commission, the Council of Europe’s top constitutional law body, advised Tbilisi to abandon the legislation. The US State Department warned of potential sanctions if the bill proceeded and suggested it might reconsider its relationship with Georgia. US lawmakers have introduced bills to incentivize the government of Georgia to reject the “Russian law” by offering visa liberalization and enhanced bilateral relations but also proposing sanctions for any democratic backsliding.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell also criticized the law, stating that it “negatively impacts Georgia’s progress on the EU path.”

Despite the veto by President Zourabichvili, who called the bill “unacceptable” and contrary to the constitution and European standards, the ruling Georgian Dream party has the majority needed to override the veto. The party, which proposed similar legislation last year, argues that the law is necessary for maintaining national identity and promoting transparency.

The political tug-of-war between Georgia’s leadership continues as the country navigates its path toward democratic reforms and Western integration.