The Center for Social Justice calls the three draft laws proposed by the Georgian Dream government to amend the Georgian Law on Broadcasting alarming and states that they essentially contradict fundamental rights enshrined in international human rights law and the Constitution of Georgia.
SJC says the proposed changes to the Law on Broadcasting impose stricter regulations on media outlets, increasing state oversight and potentially leading to censorship. Critics argue that these amendments would limit editorial independence, giving authorities greater control.
First Bill – Content Restrictions and Regulations on Broadcasters’ Activities
“This amendment introduces new regulations on broadcasting standards, including accuracy of facts, impartiality, privacy protection, and coverage of emergency situations. Previously, these matters were regulated through media self-regulation, but under the new law, the National Communications Commission will oversee compliance and impose sanctions for violations. Non-governmental organizations believe that this change could become a mechanism for restricting media freedom and punishing critical media outlets.”
Second Bill – Restrictions on Media Funding
“The bill bans all forms of foreign funding for broadcasters, except for commercial advertisements and product placements. Foreign entities are defined as foreign governments, non-Georgian legal entities, and individuals. This restriction threatens the financial sustainability of independent media and could potentially weaken outlets critical of the government.”
Third Bill – Deterioration of Gender Equality Standards
“This amendment concerns gender equality standards in broadcasting and significantly weakens their enforcement mechanisms. Specifically, the bill reduces obligations that previously required broadcasters to produce gender-sensitive content, increase the representation of women and vulnerable groups in the media, and ensure mechanisms for protection against discrimination,” the organization stated.
The proposed changes have drawn criticism from human rights organizations, opposition parties, and international watchdogs, who fear the amendments will further erode democratic institutions in the country.
The Georgian government defends the reforms, arguing that they aim to increase transparency and accountability in the media sector. However, the SJC and other civil society organizations insist that the amendments create a hostile environment for independent journalism and violate Georgia’s international commitments to press freedom and democratic governance.
Header image: Forbes
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