Georgia’s ruling party adopted the controversial law in its third and final reading by 84 votes against 30 on May 14, amid widespread local protests and despite international criticism.
Despite domestic unrest and concerns raised by international bodies, the ruling party proceeded with the legislation, prompting calls for careful consideration and adherence to democratic standards.
The code restores the possibility for CSOs to represent public interest in civil cases, albeit limiting the extent to which they can contribute to the case.
It will now be possible for public associations to receive aid from corporate donors for any purpose set out in the charters of these public associations. This change potentially increases the pool of domestic funding available to civil society.
The new online system does not address CSOs’ main concerns about obligatory registration of foreign aid, regardless of the amount received, and about the very narrow, closed list of possible purposes for the use of this aid.