In a joint Nordic and Baltic statement, Denmark has expressed concern about the political situation in Georgia, where the government’s new bill has triggered massive protests across the country. Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen (Venstre) has clearly stated Denmark’s support for the Georgian people in a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “We are deeply concerned about the recent actions of the Georgian government, which are moving the country away from the EU and Europe, against the wishes of the population,” says Lars Løkke Rasmussen. He refers to a controversial bill that requires all organizations receiving more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad to register as foreign agents. This move has been criticized for being inspired by similar legislation in Russia and is feared to suppress free media and civil organizations in Georgia.
Protests against the bill have been ongoing for several weeks, with security forces using water cannons, tear gas, and shock grenades against the demonstrators. “There is a worrying escalation of violence in Georgia. Therefore, we urge the Georgian government to reconsider and listen to the thousands of Georgians who have clearly expressed their views on Europe and the EU,” Rasmussen continues. Previous attempts to pass the law last year were abandoned after similar extensive protests. Despite this, the Georgian government reintroduced the proposal in March and seems determined to push it through.
Support for EU membership is high among Georgia’s population, with around 80 percent in favor of integration with Europe. This clear popular support makes it even more controversial that the government is attempting to pass a law that could further isolate the country from the European community. Denmark, along with the other Nordic and Baltic countries, stands firm in their support for Georgia on the path towards European integration and calls for a peaceful solution to the current crisis.