Georgia: New Laws Devastate Independent Civic Groups

Georgian authorities are taking steps to restrict independent civil society groups. New laws have been implemented that place foreign funding under government control and impose labels on certain groups. These laws also pose a threat to activists and independent groups, who may face fines and prison sentences. Further details about the situation are available from Human Rights Watch. The organization is calling for the government to repeal these laws and allow independent groups to operate without interference. International partners are being urged to take action in response to the situation, including considering sanctions and increasing support for independent groups.