Zurab Japaridze, one of the leaders of the “For Change Coalition”, stated after meeting with the U.S. Congress staff delegation that the announcement of new regulations was deliberately timed to coincide with the delegation’s visit.

“I don’t believe in coincidences - that the U.S. delegation arrives and on the same day a new regulatory package is announced, aimed at silencing critical media, political parties, and civil society in this country. In my view, it’s a signal from the Russians to the Americans: ‘This country is in our pocket, and we do whatever we want,’” Japaridze said.

According to Japaridze, the U.S. delegation was fully informed on all current issues in Georgia, including territorial integrity, democratic backsliding, and human rights. He emphasized that the United States remains a strategic partner and supporter of the Georgian people.

Regarding the new legislation, Japaridze highlighted that it affects the “Law on Grants” and introduces several restrictions:

• Definition of a grant now includes any funds or in-kind contributions given with the intent to influence Georgian authorities, state institutions, or society, including activities tied to foreign governments or political parties. Grant receipt requires prior approval from the Georgian government.

• Violations of these rules would result in fines, 300–500 hours of community service, or imprisonment up to 6 years.

• Party leaders receiving foreign funding would face the same penalties.

• Foreign lobbying is now criminalized.

• Changes to the Law on Political Associations restrict political party membership for employees of organizations receiving over 20% of their annual income from foreign entities for 8 years.

• Entrepreneurs engaging in unrelated public political activity may face fines of 20,000 GEL for a first violation and 40,000 GEL for repeated violations.

Japaridze views these measures as part of a broader effort to suppress opposition and civil society in Georgia.