The situation in Georgia is deteriorating further, — this is stated in a declaration disseminated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sweden.

“The new legislation adopted by the ruling party effectively restricts virtually all forms of foreign funding for independent organizations, criminalizes core civic activities, and obstructs political activity,” — the statement reads.

The declaration notes that “this is incompatible with democratic principles and with Georgia's international human rights obligations.”

“We call on the Georgian authorities to change their authoritarian course. Sweden remains a long-time friend and reliable partner of the Georgian people,” — the statement concludes.