Analysis

The Kremlin’s Special Information Operation in Georgia Continues

Lancaster, who is a Kremlin propagandist, is attempting to cover the ongoing processes in Georgia during his visit to Tbilisi through disinformation and false narratives. The videos he disseminates deliberately manipulate interviews with Georgian protesters and foreigners, creating a false impression about the ongoing protests in Georgia.

Georgia's Press Freedom Index Plunges to 2011-2012 Levels

Between 2022 and 2024, Georgia experienced a sharp decline in the quality of democracy. The rights of the media and journalists have significantly worsened. In addition to the existential threat stemming from Russian-style Foreign Agents Law, journalists and cameramen have faced brutal physical violence. Freedom of expression remains a primary target for regimes moving toward dictatorship.

“Georgian Dream” Strengthens Repressive Mechanisms

The developments since November 28 clearly demonstrate that the “Georgian Dream” continues to systematically disregard constitutional principles and aims to suppress both ongoing and any future protest through its “draconian” laws and subsequent repressions

Responding to the Amendments to the Law on Public Service Adopted by the Georgian Dream in the Third Reading

IDFI believes that the content of the amendments to the Law “On Public Service” and their expedited adoption process is an additional confirmation that if Georgian Dream succeeds in restricting freedom of expression in the country and isolating Georgia from the democratic world, it will initiate a broader purge of various sectors, including the public service, of individuals deemed unacceptable to the party.

Inadequate Response of the Special Investigation Service to the Violence Perpetrated by Police Forces

IDFI believes that the investigators of the Special Investigation Service must be physically present at the protests, at the spots where law enforcement activities are being carried out, and immediately arrest representatives of police and special forces as they are perpetrating crimes of torture, inhumane treatment, and violence.

Active Measures by Russian Intelligence Agencies: Alexander Malkevich in Georgia

During the 2024 parliamentary elections in Georgia, Russian propagandist Aleksandr Malkevich, who has been sanctioned by the European Union, the United States, and other countries and is wanted by the U.S. (which has set a $10 million reward for information about him), was present in the country.

Companies Founded in Georgia by Russian Citizens - Links and Registration Features

The number of Russian companies in Georgia has reached a historical peak. The increase in the number of companies founded by Russian citizens began after the start of the Russia-Ukraine war and the arrival of Russian migrants in Georgia. In many cases, large Russian companies enter the Georgian economy through offshore or intermediary companies, making it difficult to determine who exactly is behind a specific company.

Beneficial Ownership Transparency Standards and Controversial Changes to the Tax Code (the so-called Offshore Law) in Georgia

As commissioned by the Institute for Development of Freedom of Information (IDFI) the present paper analyses the challenges posed by recent amendments to Georgia's tax code, known as the "offshore law," which facilitates the transfer of offshore assets into Georgia. The analysis is considering/covering the country's commitment to creating a beneficial ownership transparency registry and the contemporary trend of increasing accountability for offshore companies and making beneficial ownership data more accessible.

Review of GRECO Fifth Evaluation Round Report: Identified Challenges and Recommendations Addressed to Georgia

The report reviews the effectiveness of the accountability, integrity and anti-corruption mechanisms of high-level officials and law enforcement.

Results of Global Index on Responsible AI in Eastern Europe and Central Asia