Over 60 Media Outlets Denounce Draft Law on Foreign Agents
In a joint statement released on February 27, more than 60 media outlets denounced the draft law on foreign agents, saying its goal is to silence critical media and prevent media and civil society organizations from highlighting cases of corruption, injustice and poverty in the country.
“It is confirmed by the consequences of the similar law adopted in Russia years ago – civil society and media organizations were closed, while journalists became victims of persecution,” the statement said.
The signatories believe that the draft law harms the process of EU membership and top EU officials “have made it clear.” “Thus, the submitted draft law hinders Georgia’s development and closes the window of opportunities for the country,” the media outlets noted.
Noting that they serve the public and care about the country’s future, the media outlets said that they “will not work with this label.” “So, if the Russian law is adopted, we will refuse to register as agents of foreign influence. It insults our professional dignity,” the statement reads.
The statement was signed by Civil.ge, Netgazeti, Publika, Indigo, Studio Monitor, Tabula, on.ge, JAMnews, Media Holding Komersanti, Journalism Resource Center, and others.
Also Read:
- 27/02/2023 – United Nations in Georgia Expresses Concern over Draft Law on Foreign Agents
- 23/02/2023 – TI: Georgian Parliament Must Reject Proposed “Foreign Agents” Law
- 22/02/2023 – UPDATED: “Georgian Dream” Promotes Draft Law on Foreign Agents, Multipies Tactical Narratives
- 21/02/2023 – People’s Power Unveils Plans to Register Alternative Bill on Foreign Agents
- 20/02/2023 – President Refuses to Support Draft Law on Foreign Agents
- 17/02/2023 – Public Defender’s Office Slams Draft Law on Foreign Agents
- 17/02/2023 – PACE Rapporteurs Urge Political Parties not to Adopt Draft Law on Foreign Agents
- 16/02/2023 – U.S. ‘Deeply Concerned’ about Draft Law on Foreign Agents
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