Levan Ioseliani: The expectations that existed regarding the Transparency Law were exaggerated - the legislation itself is American and, accordingly, it is unnecessary to talk about its undemocratic nature

The expectations that existed regarding the Transparency Law were exaggerated - the legislation itself is American and, accordingly, it is unnecessary to talk about its undemocratic nature, - the Public Defender, Levan Ioseliani, said regarding the enactment of the so-called FARA law in Georgia.

According to the Public Defender, he will monitor whether the said law will lead to restrictions in Georgia.

“When the Transparency Law was introduced, my position was that transparency was a legitimate goal and, accordingly, we would monitor in the future to what extent the existence of this legislation would restrict the rights of specific people or non-governmental organizations in practice.

In my opinion, the expectations that existed regarding the Transparency Law were excessive. Regarding this law, the legislation itself is American, and therefore, it is unnecessary to talk about its undemocratic nature. However, in the context in which this legislation will operate, I mean Georgia, we will monitor whether the operation of this legislation will lead to restrictions or human rights problems for the subjects to whom this legislation applies. If such a thing occurs, of course, I, as the Public Defender, will speak publicly about it,” said Levan Ioseliani.