More than 60 media outlets are releasing a joint statement in which media representatives state that they are categorically opposed to the Russian bill initiated by members of the parliamentary majority.
“We, the media organizations that signed the statement, categorically oppose the Russian draft law on “agents of foreign influence” initiated by members of the parliamentary majority.
“We believe that the goal of this law is to stop critical voices from being heard, and media and public organizations cannot reflect corruption, injustice and poverty in the country.
“This is confirmed by the results of a similar law passed in Russia years ago – civil and media organizations were closed, and journalists became victims of persecution.
“Adoption of this law harms the process of accession to the European Union, which was clearly indicated by the statement of the High Representative of the European Union on February 24. Accordingly, the submitted legislative amendment hinders the development of Georgia and closes the window of opportunity that has appeared today.
“We serve the community and are concerned about the future of our country. We are not going to work under this label. Accordingly, in case of adoption of the Russian law, we refuse to register as an “agent of foreign influence”. This offends our professional dignity,” the statement reads.
The parliamentary majority of Georgia plans to adopt a draft law, as a result of the approval of which a number of non-governmental organizations in Russia were first declared “foreign agents” and then completely banned. With the law on “foreign agents”, the media is also being targeted in the country.
Currently, members of the majority have initiated two “foreign agents of influence” bills: 1. What they say is a “softer” version of the US Foreign Agents Registration Act [FARA], and 2. “an alternative version of American law.”
Adoption of a similar law in Georgia is criticized both within the country, and western partners, including the US, where the law on “registration of foreign agents” came into force almost a century ago, and they urge the government not to adopt it.
By Ana Dumbadze
Image source: Netgazeti
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