USA visa sanctions spark backlash from Georgia ruling party

The ruling Georgian Dream party in Georgia has accused the USA of engaging in a policy of "threats and blackmail." This statement came in response to comments by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who announced visa restrictions for individuals deemed responsible for "undermining democracy" in Georgia.

"The policy of blackmail and threats against Georgia does not correspond not only to the spirit of strategic partnership but also to the general spirit of partnership that should be established between the two sovereign states," stated the political council of Georgian Dream.

Blinken's statement and the "blackmail" over visa restrictions were described as a "blatant attempt to limit Georgia's independence and sovereignty," adding that such sanctions are seen as "counterproductive."

On Thursday evening (Eastern Time), the U.S. Secretary of State announced that the United States will review its cooperation with Georgia following the passage of a law on so-called foreign agents by the Georgian parliament. He also declared the introduction of visa restrictions for individuals deemed responsible for "undermining democracy" in Georgia.

For over a month, Georgia has seen massive protests against the law on so-called foreign agents, also known as the agents' law or the Russian law. Critics argue it will enable the authorities to dismantle civil society and introduce an authoritarian governance model in the Russian style.

Why did Georgian Dream pull the law out of the drawer (they tried to pass it a year earlier but succumbed to the pressure of protests)?

We can assume that it is most likely about greater control over the flow of money and the financing of civil society, as well as greater social control ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for late October. According to polls, Georgian Dream is expected to win them, but they are most likely aiming for the highest possible victory that would guarantee a constitutional majority and the ability to elect a president – Wojciech Górecki from the Center for Eastern Studies said in an interview with money.pl.

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the controversial law. However, the ruling party has enough votes to override the presidential veto. The chamber is set to begin this procedure on May 27.

It's worth noting that in December 2023, Georgia obtained the status of a candidate country for EU membership. However, the law targeting "foreign agents" jeopardizes Tbilisi's relations with Brussels.