Transparency International – UK has stated that the imposition of British sanctions against Georgian propaganda channels is “only the beginning,” urging further action against what it describes as regime enablers.
In a declaration released by the organization, Transparency International – UK welcomed the British government’s decision to sanction Georgian information channels Imedi and PostTV for spreading propaganda in support of Russia’s military machine.
“The British government’s decision to impose sanctions on the Georgian information channels ‘Imedi’ and ‘PosTV’ for spreading propaganda in support of Russia’s military machine is an important and necessary step. It is a message that Russia-backed influence operations are playing a direct role in the erosion of Georgia’s hard-won democracy. But this must be only the beginning,” the statement reads.
Duncan Hames, Director of Policy at Transparency International – UK, says Georgia is “being driven toward kleptocracy by a small group of regime enablers,” and is falling “even deeper under Putin’s influence.”
“Sanctions must reflect this reality,” Hames said.
The organization further urged the United Kingdom to take swift action against those it describes as facilitators of the regime.
“Britain must now act swiftly against the regime’s enablers: freeze their assets, restrict their access to the UK’s financial infrastructure, and ensure they cannot use London as a safe haven when the time finally comes to hold them accountable,” Hames noted.
Transparency International – UK emphasized that it welcomes the British government’s decision, but stressed that broader and more comprehensive measures are necessary.
