For the first time since 2010, the public access to the website of asset declarations of public officials is denied. Since December 2024, a so-called authorization function has been added to the public officials' declarations portal. This authorization does not allow for new user registration. Authorization is also impossible with a new ID card. Interested parties no longer have access to the public information posted on the declarations portal.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau has not issued any explanation on this matter. On December 6, 2024, IDFI requested public information from the Bureau regarding the restriction of access to the declarations. Before receiving an official response, the Bureau verbally explained to us that the change was due to a technical malfunction, however, the official response provided by the Bureau on December 17 makes no mention of a technical malfunction at all.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau's written response states that the Bureau is responsible for ensuring the publicity of declarations and that interested parties can submit a public information request. The Bureau further explains that the legal basis for administering the declarations has not changed.

This response indirectly confirms that the publication of declarations in Georgia was banned based on a managerial decision. However, given the importance of the issue, IDFI sent a clarifying request to the Bureau to receive a direct and clear answer.

The existing circumstances indicate that the Anti-Corruption Bureau has reverted to the situation that existed before 2010 and prohibited proactive public access to the asset declarations of public officials.

IDFI believes that the Anti-Corruption Bureau should immediately provide an explanation regarding the real reasons for suspending the portal's operation and restore access to the public declarations portal.