The UK Parliament released a new report concerning disinformation, specifically addressing the situation in georgia. The Foreign Affairs Committee of the House of Commons sharply criticizes the policies of the Georgian Dream government, citing delays in EU integration, restrictions on opposition, and the spread of disinformation. This document identifies parallels between Georgian Dream’s actions and those of Russia.
The report, titled “Disinformation Diplomacy,” positions georgia as a key area of geopolitical competition between the West and Russia within the Black Sea region. The United Kingdom and the European Union support georgia’s aspirations for liberal democracy and Western institutions, including potential NATO and EU membership, while Russia seeks to impede this process. Since 2012, the Georgian Dream, led by Bidzina Ivanishvili, has consolidated power through suppressing opposition, suspending EU talks, and promoting pro-Russian narratives.
Ivanishvili, a billionaire with roots in post-Soviet Russia, has repeatedly echoed anti-Western viewpoints. The report highlights concerns about the “foreign agents” law and the government’s restrictions on civil society. The parliament report calls for further sanctions against individuals involved in the “foreign agents” legislation and those spreading disinformation.
It also requests clarification from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office regarding support for georgia’s civil society and independent media. MEPs specifically called for sanctions against television channels Imedi, POSTV and Rustavi 2. The committee expressed deep concern over georgia’s deteriorating democratic processes, warning that continued trends and increased Russian influence could lead to an authoritarian system similar to that of Belarus.
The report recommends additional targeted sanctions against those backing the legislation.
Topics: #georgia #report #parliament
A troubling trend is emerging, demanding serious attention.