Is GEORGIA abandoning the WEST?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

This has been a question that has been on my mind for ages. There’s all sorts of talk about how Georgia is coming under Russia’s influence. But how can we talk about Georgia moving closer to Russia when Russia still occupies part of its territory, and the country is so overtly in favour of joining the European Union? The answer isn’t as straightforward as presented in many circles - including by the Georgian opposition and much of the Western media. But let me know what you think. Is Georgia moving closer to Moscow? Or is it really a case of separate but aligned interests?

[@jakef.7126]

It really is that simple. Dream party is pretending to be pro-EU to placate Georgians (unsuccessfully), but is working hand in hand with Moscow to erode Georgian sovereignty. It shouldn't be complicated, we have seen the same thing in Moldova and Ukraine where a partially russian occupied nation is subverted by Moscow backed agents.

[@Todd.B]

I still have a hard time even fathoming the concept that any country right now would be looking toward Russia as a positive move for their future. Russia is not the same country it was in 2021 even, oil and gas exports have all but collapsed, the military doesn't look as invincible as people thought in 2021. A wait and see how Russia comes out of this first approach is at least understandable. The pushback though from people toward any concerns is the same BS that we hear here in America of people defending Trump. Same M.O.

[@attilamarics3374]

@@jakef.7126 Well if foreign NGOs funding you insecret is a way of being "sovereing" that means the exact opposite actually.

[@anotherbacklog]

One thing I couldn’t wrap my head around is, the foreign agent registration act would expose both western funded organizations And Russian puppets. If the population overwhelmingly in support of EU integration and would be more tolerant towards western funded organizations, shouldn’t this law work against Russia instead?

[@jakef.7126]

@@anotherbacklog Well... You clearly haven't looked into it, have you?

[@Scrooge1Percenter]

Could the issue be that the EU and the USA don't want their influence in Georgia to be made transparent?

[@MarkWinterrowd]

Absolutely

[@MarkWinterrowd]

Absolutely

[@ThatHabsburgMapGuy]

It is already transparent. Every organization that receives western grants published that information online and in reports to the government. It easy to find, but perhaps you don't want to find it.

[@Scrooge1Percenter]

@@ThatHabsburgMapGuy sure 🤣🤣🤣

[@dudeusrandomus6643]

Get real, it's about labeling and ostracizing opponents

[@trl_xprking1425]

Georgia should not let NATO drag them into war with Russia.

[@Yumo129]

I guess you would agree to "it's the West's fault that Russia invaded Ukraine" then as well. It is even sillier to believe that for Georgia. Even the most hawkish American generals would not want a second front in Georgia. Georgia would be occupied within less than a week, making it a liability for the Western alliance. "Dragging Georgia into the war" has only disadvantages. There were some radicals in Ukraine who said that at some point and that's it.

[@emelyaganoglu8226]

@@Yumo129 Don't you know how the previous US Ambassador and many EU commissioners encouraged Georgia for the 2nd front? Fortunatelly, Georgians have still ndt forgotten the "red tie" memory.

[@Yumo129]

@@emelyaganoglu8226 I hear that often, but still look for a source to support that claim. All I find are Ukrainians. If you find anything, please send it. But even if there would be people who said that, was that ever feasible? Pretty certainly not, as Georgia's participation in the war would be an immediate loss for the West and especially Western Generals will know this.

[@emelyaganoglu8226]

@@Yumo129 I suggest you reasearch the statement of Georgian PM Irakly Kodakidze's statement last week (about 2. front). He declares that former US Ambassador Kelly Degnan has a negative impact on relations on this issue. I have also followed in the past two years, statements from the Georgian media Adam Kinzinger (he is no longer in Congress but a consultant for CNN now) and many EU MPs, saying "now is the correct time for 2. front".

[@Yumo129]

@@emelyaganoglu8226 I live in Georgia, my wife is Georgian, I follow news very closely myself. I hope you agree that "Kobakhidze said person X said" is no valid source. Where is that statement by Degnan? Same goes for said EU parliamentarians. Who said that? I don't find anything. Even if so: the position of one or two members of Parliament of either the EU nor the congress makes it a widespread, truly considered opinion. There are at least four EU parliamentarians who believe we are governed by reptiloids from space. That doesn't turn it into a EU position

[@MegaTatatatira]

Same low is in power in the U.S. and in many EU countryes. But as Romans were saing.. "rules are not the same for Jupiter and bull." So, when the West is controlimg financing of their NGO's from foreing donors, that is protection of national interests, but when Georgia is doing the same, that is "non democtratic" bla.bla.bla...

[@alanhamford2538]

The West has only one rule _"you're either with us or against us.'_

[@emelyaganoglu8226]

Those who even present "occupation" or "genocide" as "establishment of democracy" for themselves...Of course, they will apply double standards on this issue as well...

[@svenhanson398]

I wrote that just above here and then I scroll and find your comment. Happy to see more know what hypocritical this is

[@JamesKerLindsay]

No. I have covered this a lot in other comments. There are fundamental differences.

[@ThatHabsburgMapGuy]

This law is not the same. In the US, foreign agent status must be proven in court, not assigned arbitrarily. Individual employees of these organizations would not be subject to harassment and huge fines, and they wouldn't need to submit reports about their sex lives (as this current iteration of the law demands!). And, in the US, thugs would not hunt down and beat opposition protestors outside their homes while police watch!

[@isaackinyua5756]

Georgia is a free nation. We are in a multi-polar world.

[@MohammedKarimzai]

You are free nation but control by corrupted western and you will not get nothing.

[@palimpalim5291]

Thanks to Russia ...

[@isaacmoran9853]

That man doesn't want Ursula von derleyen to tell him what to do, This man doesn't want the CIA to interfere in Georgia s internal affairs, Who the hell is USA UK and European union to tell people what to do?

[@vgames6792]

AMEN!!!!

[@ИгорьШаматрин]

Yessss

[@Gmordor]

But that man wants Russia to interfere in Georgia internal affairs. C’mon, do you really think that we don’t see which kind of Russian propaganda you want to spread ? That you are really naive

[@НатальяТрусова-Мокина]

Of course, You are brilliantly Right.

[@artman12]

The hypocrisy of the USA and EU is blaring.

[@Fummy007]

The law isnt a "Russian law" its an anti-Russian law. Russian funded NGOs in Georgia should have to declare who is funding them. NGOs funded by other countries, US, China, EU members also have to declare. Seems fair enough to me.

[@froodtube]

lol Georgian government is own is Ishkavili and Russia. It is their way to spread Russian media and arrest people that speak against them. It is the same as it was in Ukraine. Georgian people want to join the EU and be Western, Georgian government gives them lip service but takes only pro-Russian actions. People have a choice of living without dignity and cowing to their Russian masters, or kicking them out, at which point Russia makes things worse for them and they maybe need to fight to be free. Russia offers only your choice of misery, or even more misery.

[@Yumo129]

The video you were just watching explained it quite well. There is no Russian funding in Georgia, it is all domestic via Ivanishvili. Who also had a law passed that his money from abroad (Russia) can float freely and unchecked into the country, no questions asked. Meanwhile the opposition has no other means than outside funding. It was never for transparency.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. But I didn’t say it was a “Russian law”. I said it was inspired by what has happened in Russia. This is a crucial difference, as I tried to point out. In fact, this whole video was to push back on the lazy thinking that Georgia is moving towards Russia. The situation is rather more complex than that. It is more a coming together of separate interests. And as another commenter rightly pointed out, the problem is that the government in Georgia is run by a billionaire. However, there is no internal funding available for NGOs that want to hold the government to account. They rely on external funding. Cutting this off or trying to stop them from receiving money by intimidation (as this law tries to do), is a way for the government to suppress democracy.

[@kabzaify]

​@@JamesKerLindsayIs actually American influence, the Russian also copied America

[@Dragonstar4839]

Georgion laws which requires foreign funding of Ngos in Georgio is inspired by similar US laws and yet why is it not anti democracy in US?

[@iany2448]

These small countries bordering Russia should have the wisdom of maintaining democratic systems and rule of law domestically while not to antagonizing Russia. The two does not have to be mutually exclusive. Ukrainian political class failed the nation and its people in this regard, and country is paying a heavy price.

[@efghggdxlmfn33]

Georgia defends its independence from Russia and from Western countries. And a law similar to the American law, FARA, will protect it from hundreds of “non-profit, non-state” brainwashing foundations.

[@mohammedmir777]

Who was behind that idea?

[@efghggdxlmfn33]

@@mohammedmir777 ask the former president Saakashvili and his relationship with the CIA.

[@lilacer6841]

This man his propaganda. Lol 😂😂😂

[@froodtube]

Doesn't work with Russia. Ukraine tried exactly what you say. People wanted peaceful democracy, join the EU, but NOT join NATO. Their Russian puppet government actually ran on that platform and was elected just barely because of that. Deal with EU was ready to go. Then their elected President says "haha just kidding I lied, Putin gave me a special deal so I decided to sign Ukraine on with him instead" Ukrainians kicked that bum out (who of course fled to, where else, Russia). Putin having lost his puppet government immediately blew a fuse and sent troops to occupy Ukraine. It is now getting clearly the same choice for Georgia. Georgian people overwhelmingly want Russia out and to join the EU. Their government is owned by Russia and gives them lip service, but takes every action to prevent it from happening. If the Georgian people want to fight for their freedom, it likely comes at a cost, but there isn't likely going to be a much better time than now to do it. It is their choice.

[@jonm7547]

I thought very similar foreign agent - foreign influence laws are in force in all Western countries? This aspect is never mentioned in our news, I wonder why…

[@NewOrleansSeptember]

Because this is another CIA front channel.

[@Nikodin88]

Because of blame Russia

[@Gmordor]

Luckily that is clear that foreign influence is more than obviously in putin time. If you enjoy the dictatorship be my guest.

[@jarekfisnar]

FARA act is in the EU banned idea, because of NGO´s , with FARA you can risk going back to democracy

[@abdullahnassor9433]

I see no democracy in the west two or three parties ran by Soros

[@andrewsmith3760]

How is ensuring organisations declaring if they have foreign funding undemocratic? I thought transparency was desirable in a democracy.

[@22nikatsuki22]

The main problem with this law is not the fact that you have to register. All the financials are already visible and reported through several different government institutions. The issue lies in the monitoring mechanism.The part about registering as "agent of foreign interest" looks harmless on surface, but it carries a lot of stigma. Just recieving funding from abroad doesn't mean that you are carrying out foreign interests. There's a lot of examples of international funded projects in healthcare and humanitarian aid. This part can be heaviliy abused by the government. Cause for inspection can be a suspicion ministry of justice or an anonymous tip. This inspection and fine associated with the procedure can halt and even outright stop operation of any organisation government doesn't like.

[@MM-un3ob]

​@@22nikatsuki22 OP is subscribed to pro-Russia channels... don't even bother

[@BestProProduction]

@@22nikatsuki22 I don’t know who you’re trying to convince with this nonsensical statement

[@mikaeldahl50]

@@22nikatsuki22 Lol who would care if a healthcare organisation was a "foreign agent"? I don't think anyone is going to stop going to their doctor because they are declared a foreign agent... It literally only matters for political organisations, and in those cases I think such a designation is completely fair.

[@22nikatsuki22]

Imagine being so naive to trust government not to abuse the tool by which it can effectively shut down any organisation criticising and opposing it without reprecautions. Same law is adopted in Russia, do you think it is used responsably? or used to supress opposition?

[@chanpasadopolska]

Jeżeli ustawa o zagranicznych agentach jest dobrze napisana to powinna wskazywać zarówno agentów zachodnich jak i rosyjskich tak więc w takiej sytuacji nie można mówić o jakimś prorosyjskim zabarwieniu tej ustawy. A jeżeli jest inaczej to proszę wskazać co w tej ustawie jest takiego że faworyzuje agentów rosyjskich nad zachodnimi. Bo jeżeli czegoś takiego nikt nie jest w stanie wskazać a media zachodnie dalej będą się upierać że ustawa jest prorosyjska, to myślę że sensownym założeniem będzie stwierdzić że powód tego jest taki że w Gruzji działa więcej agentów zachodnich od rosyjskich i ich taka ustawa bardziej dotyka.

[@luishernandezblonde]

Czy chcesz przez to powiedzieć, że powinniśmy pozwolić Rosjanom na ponowny podbój Polski? Gruzini doskonale wiedzieli, jakim narodem jest Rosja i walczą o uwolnienie swojego kraju od rosyjskich marionetek.

[@Hrutz36]

@@luishernandezblonde ja pierd 🤦 gdzie w tym co chan napisał wyciągnąłeś wnioski o Polsce? masz nierówno w berecie. Ustawa jest dobra też by się u nas o takich agentach przydała a nie jakieś dzieci opłacane przez nie wiadomo kogo sieją anarchie i niepokoje społeczne co troche =/

[@luishernandezblonde]

@@Hrutz36 Jeśli sugerujecie Państwo, aby Polska poddała się Rosji, to nie zgodzę się na to. Obecny reżim polityczny w Gruzji to rosyjska marionetka, tylko o tym mówię.

[@greatimo6140]

@@luishernandezblonde you are an intelligent hungry character who acts and speak without thinking. Is there anything in what he said that suggests that Poland, Georgia or any country at that should be handed over to Russia? Some of you are just CNN brainwashed characters who wants to impress America and in the process begins to act stupid without realizing it. How can passing a law that exist in America in Georgia become an issue if not that those of you criticizing it are foreign agents or hopeless bots trying to hide under NGOs to commit crimes. Your argument is even without reference to what he wrote. You are responding to what is in your head and not the subject in focus.

[@Hrutz36]

@@luishernandezblondeSugeruję panu/pani udać się na kurs czytania ze zrozumieniem bo chyba coś jest nie tak. Nie bo logiki w tym co piszesz a wciskanie nam czegoś czego nie napisaliśmy jest lekko żałosne. A może to Pan jest opłacany przez jakieś zewnętrzne organizacje żeby siać niepokój, chaos i propagande w internecie hm? Tak to wygląda.

[@matveikrouguer6569]

why united states doesn't want Georgia has a law similar to American FARA? Maybe usa wants to have some infuence over Georgia. No No , it cannot be , America never intervene into other countries internal affairs.

[@AleksandreMzhavia]

Matvei... Fara is related to lobbying in US senate, the law in Georgia is against nongovernmental organizations... if you wanted to understand it think probably you could, but i doubt you want to understand.

[@johntaylor3298]

@@AleksandreMzhavia Rubbish, America has always used NGO's to funnel money and fund coup's all over the world. Protests are all funded by NGO's and destroy governments that do not align to their agenda. Just like Ukraine. All this law requires is who is supplying money, so what is the problem? What has America got to hide and what right does America have in Georgia's internal affairs, let alone the EU? Ukraine was destroyed by America, right!! They overthrew the democratically elected government of Ukraine, and everyone in the west was SILENT.

[@manichaean1888]

@@AleksandreMzhavia Same same but different ))) So, what's wrong with transparency of the NGO financial sources (i.e. foreign influence)?

[@greatimo6140]

​@@AleksandreMzhaviaanybody who does not want to declare his or her sources of funding to it's Government is a foreign agent and a dangerous person. How can anyone avoiding scrutiny be claiming to be democrat instead of hideous criminal. Your argument is not Plusible.

[@Charlie-np3bo]

It’s not the same, you didn’t even read the bill. It’s a law for the Georgian dream to control there citizens

[@sturmanaskie]

Why are America and European countries allowed to have foreign agent laws and not Georgia ?

[@mouniash]

Because it's for the right cause. Georgia's is for the wrong cause. As usual double standards and hypocrisy.

[@milostomic8539]

Because that is how double standards work.

[@vgames6792]

bca they are fascist regimes?

[@artman12]

“Rules for thee but not for me”- US and EU

[@raymondmckinley5955]

Neutrality Studies on KZbin has a good look at this subject, well worth a watch.

[@ebb_]

I watch it often

[@michaellovering1659]

Yes. The guest was the best expert on Georgia that I've heard.

[@vangelisskia214]

USA have an almost identical foreign agents law... This alone shows the HYPOCRICY...

[@DontMansion]

Right 100%

[@lashachakhunashvili1399]

You don't read Georgian, do you? The law has nothing to do with the US FARA.

[@AnthonyCarroll-ue3uv]

You don't read English mate. ​@@lashachakhunashvili1399

[@Charlie-np3bo]

If you read the law it has nothing to do with that. If I send money to Georgia and the person receiving, they have to label themselves as an agent. Then depending on the situation they get fined $900. Also listing yourself as an agent has a target on yourself. That’s just one thing on the bill. It’s a Russian law to control the people and russia to have a hand in georgias politics. It people seem to hate this and probably come October they will vote for someone else

[@tecuci76]

The US does not have a law against NGOs. The FARA Law is only about disclosing foreign funding in general as a matter of public transparency. Georgia's law is about definitionally labeling an NGO as "pursuing the interest of a foreign power" if it receives more than 20% of its funding from foreign agents. Any attempt to equivocate the two is just willfully spreading misinformation to try and make what the Georgian Parliament is doing seem "normal".

[@dragosstanciu9866]

Georgia needs prosperity, not internal conflicts. The government must improve the standard of living, not antagonize the citizens.

[@doppovulkan8449]

Georgian here, you cant improve prosperity when there's a government which wants to prosper alone. Our government has fed the population with so much anti-western propaganda and has been doing so much bare minimum that a decently large part of the population has been living with it for so long. Now people are waking up and realizing that the entire country is basically a bank of a person who owns 1/3d of its GDP.

[@stolekostov5111]

So if CIA MI6 IMF and Soros funded groups that spread misinformation and stir up tensions/ protests/ revolutions are forced to register as foreign actors, it's a clear move towards Russia? Wouldn't Russian- backed groups also be registered as such? I despise the hypocrisy in the Western propaganda narrative. Everyone with 2 braincells can do basic research and recognize the playbook. It happened in Ukraine in 2014. In 2016 it happened in Macedonia. The Chinese built us 1 highway and put government was toppled. I don't blame the Georgian leadership for looking out for their people. You should probably mention why Russia invaded both Georgia and later Crimea. Poland and the Baltics joining NATO was tolerable, but Ukraine and Georgia are on their borders. What would the response be if Russia put missiles in Ireland? Or China does the same in Cuba like the US in Taiwan? I feel pity for the blind sheep.

[@mandrews1245]

They. are protecting the people by the NGO legislation. The US has several regulations pertaining to formation, taxation and financing for NGO's. It is common for countries to have such legislation. It protects the country from too much foreign influence. Crowds like this are often fuelled by foreign governments who want to hide their NGO control.

[@hyhhy]

This law will help that. The foreign-funded NGOs create a lot of division and conflict.

[@svenhanson398]

@@mandrews1245 Regardless of foreign influence it's good for democracy with openness. Why would an NGO find it important to hide where they get their funding from. All papers on the table open for scrutiny, otherwise something is fishy

[@jonathangammond3019]

Ivanishvili, the man behind Georgian Dream gets considerably more than 20% of his money from abroad so he had better register himself as a 'foreign agent'.

[@Nikodin88]

I find it very interesting that you compared the new law with the one that was passed not so long ago in Russia, and somehow you forgot to say that in the US there is an even more rigid law that has been in force since 1938. You also forgot to mention that in Georgia there is one NGO for every 300 inhabitants and that they receive over 90% of their funds from abroad. NGOs have become too powerful in Georgia, if you take into account all the people who directly and indirectly depend on foreign grants, you can easily conclude what their potential is and what people who do not want to lose foreign money are ready for... According to the UN recommendation, NGOs should have their power in mass membership and broad support for their ideas, while in practice we have the accumulation of foreign capital by one group of people who are not afraid to use it in the interest of their financiers, and to the detriment of local communities, this practice is clear throughout the entire post-Soviet area and in Balkan too, and is no longer a secret to anyone, therefore, I conclude that this video is malicious and deliberately omits important facts that affect the situation on the ground

[@stolekostov5111]

So if CIA MI6 IMF and Soros funded groups that spread misinformation and stir up tensions/ protests/ revolutions are forced to register as foreign actors, it's a clear move towards Russia? Wouldn't Russian- backed groups also be registered as such? I despise the hypocrisy in the Western propaganda narrative. Everyone with 2 braincells can do basic research and recognize the playbook. It happened in Ukraine in 2014. In 2016 it happened in Macedonia. The Chinese built us 1 highway and put government was toppled. I don't blame the Georgian leadership for looking out for their people. You should probably mention why Russia invaded both Georgia and later Crimea. Poland and the Baltics joining NATO was tolerable, but Ukraine and Georgia are on their borders. What would the response be if Russia put missiles in Ireland? Or China does the same in Cuba like the US in Taiwan? I feel pity for the blind sheep.

[@davidgamtenadze4045]

Interesting how you use the same rhetoric Russian propagandists use. Current Georgian government also announced that they will create a “list of traitors” for all to see, and promised to punish them severely. Who will be traitors? For them all that oppose their corruption is one

[@MuiltiLightRider]

The US does not have a law against NGOs. The FARA Law is only about disclosing foreign funding in general as a matter of public transparency. Georgia's law is about definitionally labeling an NGO as "pursuing the interest of a foreign power" if it receives more than 20% of its funding from foreign agents. Any attempt to equivocate the two is just willfully spreading misinformation to try and make what the Georgian Parliament is doing seem "normal

[@AJYahye]

You're 100 % right...Russia knows what is going on, in Georgia... Russia isn't bluffing, if don't stop, disruption Georgia, and try same yellow orange in Ukraine...I 100% believe, Putin will anex complete Georgia in to Russia....

[@John-.-Smith]

The only thing I see wrong is the threadhold of 20%. It should be 0%. Why would foreign agencies finance domestic media outlets? This is very suspecious. Those countries that protest against this law are the ones that finance Georgian mefia.

[@ballerblocks]

Georgia trying to be independent of both sides, means it's moving towards moscow?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

I explained it all in the video. I specifically pushed back against the argument that Georgia is aligning with Russia. Something more subtle is happening. The Georgian Government and Russia are finding that their interests are aligned. It is not the same.

[@pam1974argentina]

@@JamesKerLindsay Yes, but the title of the video seems to highlight Western concern, not just your analysis, or Georgian sovereignty

[@Gmordor]

@@JamesKerLindsay And your expertise is “ telling “ us that mutual “ interests “ are the same. Men, do you really think that the world is so stupid ?

[@asdrubalanibal6853]

It only would mean that from a heavily involved and interested NATO perspective.

[@Gmordor]

@@asdrubalanibal6853 ,or heavily involved and sponsored by Russia

[@janetmontgomery-r6j]

I hope Georgia stays free. Calm. Peaceful, and safe

[@aa-ge2ke]

Примут закон и сразу станут свободными и безопасными от запада

[@jorbdan6305]

I've read quite a few articles on the foreign agent bill and been unable to find answers for many of my questions. How exactly does this bill violate EU laws and prevent accession? Why is it assumed that the bill would produce similar effects to a Russian equivalent in 2012 that was used as a pretext to shut down oppositional outlets? Wouldn't shutting down oppositional outlets illegal regardless of whether the bill passes? In what way exactly does the foreign agent bill mirror Russian legislation?

[@perro0076]

Same here. I saw one in Neutrality Studies that explains it quite well. Essentially it has nothing to with Russia. NGOs have influence on what governments do, and as it happens the ones operating in Georgia have the EU and the USA behind them. Right on Russia's backyard. So the NGOs don't want to be 'busted' as being extensions of the EU and the USA. Hence in typical CIA fashion they arrange demonstrations. I would argue that law should also include media outlets and universities. ESPECIALLY media outlets.

[@davidmaisel8062]

I've read the bill and am familiar with the Russian and European legislation. The transparency bill the Georgian parliament passed requires NGO's who receive over 20% of their funding from abroad to register as agents of foreign influence. The EU law "Defense of Democracy" act doesn't have a financial threshold but controls the "activity" of NGO's and calls for harmonization. The Russian bill goes much further in combination with media restrictions. So, the EU can not quote which law is violated but disagree with the "spirit" of the law.

[@jorbdan6305]

@@davidmaisel8062 Interesting, thanks!

[@kntrishdekanoidze1382]

​@@davidmaisel8062 tbh if NGOs whole yearly fundings 20 percent is from outside it probably is going to work for foreigner to not lose that funding. Everyone is here for money lets dont lie to ourselves.

[@dbullet]

Also how is it any different from FARA in America ?

[@asdrubalanibal6853]

Is Georgia moving towards Moscow? Is Mexico moving towards Washington DC? Is Vietnam moving towards Beijing?

[@batkex3002]

Can you imagine an organization in the US receiving 20% ​​of donations from an unknown donor outside the country.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

The difference is that the United States is a wealthy country with plenty of internal funding for political organisations from across the political spectrum. And frankly the only countries that would fund political activities are ones that want to undermine that democracy. (The same for most, but not all, EU members.) This is very different from Georgia where there is little internal funding and the government is moving in an authoritarian direction. The context matters enormously.

[@batkex3002]

Thanks for the explanation. Of course countries in transition depend on foreign donations and investments, but this law does not prohibit anything, everything just needs to be transparent. I spent a lot of time in Bosnia and Herzegovina where the amount of foreign donations is huge. But at the same time ,due to the lack of laws regulations , the country has become a perfect destination for money laundering.

[@EamonCoyle]

I really don't see why this has suddenly become this big an issue as the policy itself isn't anything new. The wording and implementation was open to attack without a doubt but countries all over the world have similar systems to prevent outside influence and the US regular use it to attack their rivals. I would also add that I was in Azerbaijan around 2008 and similar policies were already been talked about back then in Russia and other former Soviet States.

[@sujac664]

It's a massive issue.... people in Georgia have been, and still are protesting about it, it's huge, their freedom is being absorbed step by step into the massive red sponge neighbouring them.

[@addajjalsonofallah6217]

@@sujac664 by who the US

[@mandrews1245]

Because the CIA wants to have a coup.

[@sujac664]

@@addajjalsonofallah6217 no dear, the answer to your rhetorical 'question' is contained in my comment, and your genuine curiosity to understand more about the injustices in the world. It's a choice, make it or don't make it, there'll always be good people making the right choice in spite of the game players.

[@luishernandezblonde]

Azerbaijan isn't a democracy. No one can protest. Georgia is a democracy. That's why many Georgians didn't like looking at Azerbaijan for many reasons.

[@FabledCity]

Even in the toughest post-2008 context, there had always been the twin economic drivers of Georgian wine exports to Russia and the rubles Russian tourists would spend inside Georgia. Thus the hoped for reintegration of the occupied territories was always in conflict with historic economic ties. This all played into Putin's favour.

[@anotherbacklog]

Especially Georgia shares no land border with the EU, it’s hard to imagine greater economic ties with the EU would outweigh economic ties with Russia.

[@FabledCity]

@@anotherbacklog Yes exactly. Dreams of Euro-Atlantic integration can't free it from the hard realities of its own neighbourhood.

[@mitchyoung93]

Plus there are at least tens of thousands of Georgians working in the Russian Federation, I'd guess hundreds of thousands if you include ethnic Georgians.

[@Piden-l4b]

There is no problem to trade wine with Russia. Why should there be. But being controlled by Moscow is another thing.

[@stolekostov5111]

So if CIA MI6 IMF and Soros funded groups that spread misinformation and stir up tensions/ protests/ revolutions are forced to register as foreign actors, it's a clear move towards Russia? Wouldn't Russian- backed groups also be registered as such? I despise the hypocrisy in the Western propaganda narrative. Everyone with 2 braincells can do basic research and recognize the playbook. It happened in Ukraine in 2014. In 2016 it happened in Macedonia. The Chinese built us 1 highway and put government was toppled. I don't blame the Georgian leadership for looking out for their people. You should probably mention why Russia invaded both Georgia and later Crimea. Poland and the Baltics joining NATO was tolerable, but Ukraine and Georgia are on their borders. What would the response be if Russia put missiles in Ireland? Or China does the same in Cuba like the US in Taiwan? I feel pity for the blind sheep.

[@happylistener0]

1. How can this subject be discussed without acknowledging western-backed NGOs' involvement in color revolutions? The current turmoil continues the failed color revolution of 2008. 2. The USA has FARA. EU countries with similar laws include Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, & Sweden. To characterize Georgia's law as Russian or Russian-influenced is disingenuous. 3. The USA claims manifest destiny applies to its entire hemisphere and reacts strongly against transgression. We almost blew up the world over the Cuban missile crisis. Yet do not entertain the idea that Russia might have legitimate security concerns in its own backyard. See also, NATO expansion. (And what is NATO these days, anyway?) 4. Maybe there's more to international relations than with-us or against-us. Georgia's entitled to its own sovereignty. This time, Georgia wins. Second color revolution thwarted.

[@mandrews1245]

Absolutely...

[@MMerlyn91]

Explain this to me: why is a law that the US also has back home called a "Russian law"? And why is it so important for NGOs to cover up their tracks? Isn't democracy all about transparency? To me it seems like it's just a very poor attempt at disguising the influence of Soros' NGOs. Imo, Georgia needs to be in the EU. As a Christian, I would salute the entry of a staunch Christian country in the Union. If it were up to me, them and Armenia would be in the EU tomorrow. But the reason for all the fuss seems to be very propagandistic. On the other hand, I do not understand Georgia's strategy or its obsession with getting back Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The Abkhazians do not want to be a part of the Georgian state, why would you want a hostile territory part of your country? And Russia will never let them back anyway. I understand their fear, they saw what happened to Armenia where Pashinyan has destroyed the country without any Western guarantees and Armenia lost Artsakh and will lose more of its territory in the future but Russia will not gift them those territories either. So the whole situation seems ambiguous, Saakashvili has really put them in a bad place with his antics.

[@conorreynolds9739]

When you have over half a million voters who were kicked out of their homes in those regions, and still feel deeply aggrieved about it, it’s good internal politics to be for the return of those regions even if it is impossible.

[@lexburen5932]

the usa has the same law ( the farrah law) wich says that ngo should make theyr finances public. The opposition is funded by these NGO hence the reason why the funded opposition doesnt want this to happen, and the protesters with the EU flag are funded by these NGO'S as well. Hence this new " russian law " is bad. because it would expose that all the dollars come from anglo saxon western countries into georgian ngo to buy political influence.

[@ro--M]

@@lexburen5932 You forgot to add a disclaimer "THIS MESSAGE IS FROM A FOREIGN AGENT" in you posting. 😏

[@DaTrainMan]

As another christian have you read anything about the differences in the US law and the Russian law? At all? And i dont know what country you live in but if 30% got taken away by another country im pretty sure youd be mad too. Whats the point in making such a long text too just say. “Im a stupid christian Theres a same law in america and who cares about territories that have been in georgia for centuries, just leave them to rot tehehehe!!”

[@Gustav_Kuriga]

@@DaTrainMan South Ossetians do not want to live in Georgia.

[@LevanoTipe]

Let me explain a context as a Georgian. If your country could earn money only by tourism, easy conditions for doing business as well as selling agricutlural prodocts, , it means that there cannot be such thing in Georgia as "independent policy". Thinking otherwise is such a fallacy, to be honest. Azerbaijan relies on their natural resources, and these resources are in demand in the West, and that's why europeans are ready to ignore authoritarian rule of Alyev family and its corruption. Russia heavily relies on selling their natural resources, and that's the reason why they endured the sanctions and still continue the war, as it's impossible to impose full embargo. And Georgia doesn't have these resources as economically peripheral country with no resources to sell on global markets. For 35 years of independence, Georgia has been always relying on the West, and that's the very reason why before Saakashvili came to power Putin imposed visa regime on georgian citizens in 2000 and then it was lifted in 2023. You should rather pay attention on self-contradictory rhetoric of the officials.. They still insist they are pro-western and pro-european, yet they are not, they refused to allign themselves with political mainstream and started to confront them completely, ignoring their advice, like the West is the enemy of Georgia. For some reason, russian officials and philosophers like Dugin have been praising Georgia and its policies for some reason . I wonder why.... According to the government, It's like some enemies of Georgia from "deep state" and "global war party" sneaked in and lobbied anti-georgian policies that would drag the country into the war, while "Georgian Dream" has crystal clear reputation . No, it's not.. People here in Georgia know that the law is just a pretext for chaniging geopolitical orientation of the country. . If this law was negotiated with western partners , there wouldn't have been such a backlash. Once again, law itself doesn't matter. Ideological course of the government and betraying the West does. The law is written in such a way that they could punish anyone they want,, they could deprive organizations they don't like of their funds, and not punish those who actually fund the government itself. I should point out, that the same party btw put the Article in the Georgian Consitution on euro-altanitic integration in 2018. The same people worked in western institutions and some even in Soros structured, but turned out they got sold out and changed their rhetoric all of a sudden. I wonder why.... It's just one more front of proxy war between the US and China, nothing surprising. In 2023, it was declared that China became a strategic partner of Georgia, and on May 28 2024, on the day when the law was approved, China became visa-free for Georgian citizens.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much for such an interesting and well developed comment. I do hope more viewers will see it. You clearly lay out the problems. It has been depressing to read all the comments suggesting that Georgia was merely asserting its independence and that its best option was to be tied to Russia. We both know why this is so troubling. But it is a sign of the time we live in that many people think that their hatred of the West finds its best outlet in cheering on Russia and the world’s autocrats. It is immature and shortsighted. But it is sadly too common.

[@eerieforest9188]

Georgians have a right to know where political orgs in their country get their funding. How is that even controversial?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

It is controversial because there is very little internal money to fund them. This means that they are either reliant on government handouts, which means government control, or they can receive funding from external bodies, including from countries and NGOs in states that Georgia says that it wants to move closer towards. This is the problem. It is clearly a tool of political oversight and control by the authorities.

[@felipe-vibor]

​@@JamesKerLindsayif government funding means government control then foreign funding is obviously to facilitate foreign control too.

[@ari3903]

@@JamesKerLindsay You're assuming that this law cuts off their funding. This is absolutely not the case, they only have to make it transparent. Clause 1 of the law addresses this right at the beginning. And no, I don't buy the "stigmatization" argument, it's literally just revealing the truth.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@@felipe-vibor No. There are many bodies that provide grants for activities. If I as an academic receive a grant from the European Union Research funding body to carry out work on political pluralism in Europe, I know that I can come up with whatever conclusions I want. I will not be prevented from doing so. But if I were in Turkey and received a Turkish Government grant to look at the political pluralism in Turkey, I know that I would have to be extremely careful what I say. There is a world of difference.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@@ari3903 No. I don’t for one moment assume that it cuts off their funding. Instead it is more insidious. It is used as a way to control these organisations and present them as anti-Georgian.

[@Behemoth29]

10 Mar 2023 - Georgia rejects the bill in the second reading 35 to 1. 10 Mar 2023 - Canada starts setting up a foreign agent registry. 13 Mar 2023 - EU begins its own foreign agent legislation. For some reason only Georgia is in the news though... Can't imagine why.

[@vgames6792]

fascist propaganda?

[@AchyutChaudhary]

*They have elections coming up in 5 months - so how come the ruling party is behaving so against the public interest rather than appeasing them in this period?? 🤔*

[@wamingo]

Maybe they expect to lose?

[@doppovulkan8449]

Seizing further control of the country before elections will allow them to far easily weed out the opposition and the media that goes against them. They already have basically harassed the opposition and sent in men in their houses to physically assault them.

[@attilamarics3374]

@@wamingo Or the Georgians arent that western supporting as people would like to paint them.

[@tamarkapanadze3485]

There are number of NGO, which have a big influence on politics. Some of them are owned by former or current politicians from opposition parties or their close allies. Current ruling party - Georgian Dream- is afraid to lose. Elections of 2024 won't have majoritarian system anymore. This was always bringing votes to ruling parties but now that won't be a case. Of course, GD still has supporters and party can rely on them, especially in the regions, but they still introduced this law, because of 2 reasons: 1) to be on the safe side and 2) to revenge major opponent (United National Movement, Party of Mikheil Saakashvili, who is serving a sentence now), who has a big influence in those "Political NGOs". Of course, this process is affecting civil society, because: 1) not all NGOs are involved in politics, the most of them are dealing with social, humanitarian, educational, nature protection etc. programs and 2) many people believe in European future of Georgia and are afraid that conflict between Georgia and West, which was raised after introducing this law, is completely crushing now the European dreams.

[@deiaderapan6775]

This is a classic example of "you are with us or against us".

[@danwelterweight4137]

Georgia doesn't even have diplomatic relations with Russia. There is no Russian embassy or diplomats in Georgia and vice versa. Both countries used Switzerland as an intermediary. The law that was passed in Georgia is a carbon copy of the US foreign agent registration law. The same law the FBI in the United States charged Donald Trump campaign advisors Paul Manufort and US army general Michael Flynn for failing to report to the State Department that they were receiving money from Ukraine and Turkey to lobby for them. The idea that this is making Georgia closer to Russia is ridiculous. As a matter of fact if this was the case wouldn't passing a law that forced all organizations and NGOs who are getting money from Abroad from places as Russia have to report to the public be a good idea? The fact is the West is against this law because it is going to unveil the fact that it is Western governments who are funding money to NGOs in Georgia to interfere in Georgia's internal affairs. The president of Georgia is one of them getting money from the West. She wasn't even born in Georgia. She was born in France and is a French citizen. She barely speaks Georgian and when she does it's with a thick French Accent

[@IvanIvanov-n2p]

And major economic partner is Russia

[@petervojcek7043]

Well, you can walk to your grocery shop to do your shopping, or you can travel 1000miles to do the same thing... Naturally they do business because it's more beneficial then import goods from elsewhere .

[@Yumo129]

About half of the statements here are doubtlessly false, the other is debatable. The only true parts I found are: "She wasn't even born in Georgia." and "she does it's with a thick French Accent". Do not believe everything in comment sections.

[@svenhanson398]

Yes, I was thinking the same, It's nonsensical. But people will buy into it that does not know. Good you pointed it out.

[@svenhanson398]

@@Yumo129 The whole statement was 100 percent accurate. What is your version then

[@perucho2194]

Georgia, do what's in your best interest, don't let EUROPEANS tell you what to do, strong relations with your neighbor. 💪❤

[@MarkusHirsch-Surlemont]

Sorry, meinen Sie das Russland von Gnaden vom Putlers Schergen? Die Bevölkerung von Georgien kennt Ihr gepriesenen Nachbarn aus eigener Erfahrung! Der größte Teil der Bevölkerung von Georgien will nach Europa 🇪🇺 und nicht nach Russland! Das Volk will kein Sklave vom Putler werden! Was verstehen und akzeptieren Sie hier nicht?

[@jamesonturner2711]

Thank you for your thoughts sir! I've been looking forward to hearing your perspective on Georgia and the Georgia Dream party. The background information provided is very helpful in broadening my understanding. It's regrettable that Georgia faces a choices between geopolitical and ideological adversaries....the world needs more (not fewer) non-aligned countries who can resist being manipulated and subjugated. I'm curious as to what attracts the EU to Georgia? It doesn't seem to be an obvious match on so many levels.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks Jameson. Great to hear from you! Excellent question on the EU. My sense is that there is a view in many circles that Georgia and Armenia are natural members of the European family, in a way that Turkey and Azerbaijan aren’t. Most obviously, they are Christian and Armenian is an Indian-European language. (There’s also a large Armenian community in Europe, especially France.) For one reason or another, and rightfully or otherwise, there seems to be a fundamental view that they should have a European perspective if they want it.

[@Al-fz2qi]

@@JamesKerLindsay I would suggest the West's attraction to Georgia is its possession of a piece of Black sea coastline. Always look for the geopolitical answer.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

It has that with Romania and Bulgaria, and that’s the Black Sea coastline that matters if we consider Ukraine. By the way, I think we also need to be careful about seeing geopolitics in everything. I know there are some channels that love to play to this idea, and bamboozle viewers with talk of great games and power politics, but it really isn’t the case for most international relations issues. A lot comes down to other factors, such as the specific historical relations between individual states. As someone who has worked on EU enlargement for several decades, it is important to realise that the EU is actually driven mainly by an idealistic vision of European unity. In fact, I’ve never even heard anyone talk about taking in Georgia to access the eastern bank of the Black Sea. Really, it just isn’t that important strategically for Europe.

[@artman12]

EU is the continuation of yt imperialist empires.

[@truthsearch2366]

Russia invaded Ukraine for one simple reason and Europe knows. They could have avoided this war if they have listened. But USA don't want Europe to align with Russia. Because if Europe help Russia to become economic power, then USA would lose its importance.

[@svenhanson398]

NATO is the stranglehold of Europe. And apart from that US is destroying the European economy, to hinder it from developing further and walking its own path. It is definitively not a friend of Europe, as some mad politicians seem to think.

[@vgames6792]

USA regime just lost its importance. And right now there is not a single country in the whole world they did not F with

[@59Gretsch]

Professor, thanks for mentioning that part about Kosovo, Where do United States can declare parts of the country autonomy but nobody else can.

[@ometriaslong3069]

If Georiga is moving towards Moscow, good for Georiga

[@JamesKerLindsay]

It isn’t, that’s the whole point. It is more a case that its internal direction aligns more with Russia. It’s not that it wants close ties to Russia, which after all still occupies a fair chunk of the country. And I’m not sure why moving closer to Moscow would be a good thing, economically, politically, socially, strategically, or diplomatically.

[@ro--M]

If forced to die in the frontline in a totally vain war, being jailed for showing an empty piece of paper, and living without running water and toilet is what you like, I get you.

[@tornado-s-2012]

@@JamesKerLindsay whom will they sell all their wine to? Russia is their number 1 trading partner. What will ordinary people eat as a result of these political squabbles? Even if during the war Ukraine was not allowed to sell its grain through Europe. Will Italian and French winemakers be happy? Rather, they will ruin Georgia and buy out their vineyards, as BlackRock does with lands in Ukraine and other countries

[@tornado-s-2012]

@@ro--M "without running water and toilet" - what is it about?

[@vgames6792]

​@@JamesKerLindsay economically - who is the biggest trading partner of Georgia? 🤡🤡🤡🤡 Should i continue??? Your propaganda sucks!!!

[@georgefenrirbitadze4757]

Hello im from Georgia My country 20% is occupied by russia and remaining 80% is colonized by USA, all my country is doing is trying to de colonize

[@PeskyWabb1t]

“Stifles democracy” when Georgia cracks down on foreign funded NGO and media, but it’s “defending democracy” when countries in the west ban RT and Aljazeera 😂

[@AlexanderTheGrapes]

Exactly! The hypocrisy is endless.

[@wamingo]

The difference is that RT isn't the news media that it pretends to be, it's 100% unadulterated kremlin disinformation.

[@Brejamlyn]

Nah banning RT is fine

[@photon1899]

Fantastic video as always, Professor! I would add one crucial point regarding Ivanishvilli: he's essentially an oligarch running the country as an enterprise. In this way, he probably tries to stay in power by applying to the EU but on the other hand wants to maintain his business relations with russia. I'd argue he's not necessarily trying to balance Georgia's foreign policy - he's trying to balance his own bank account.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. Great point! You’re right. EU accession requires huge economic reforms as well. This could certainly affect Ivanishvili’s business interests. It certainly seems increasingly clear that the government is playing a balancing act. The trouble is that while this was possible as an applicant, now it’s a candidate it has to actually start doing a lot more.

[@jonathanjacob5453]

The EU asked them to counter foreign disinformation. Isn’t that what their foreign agent law will do?

[@Aussie-Mocha]

Excellent 🎉✊🏻✊🏻. Listened to many versions and opinions on this Georgian matter and this was a top notch explanation & summary!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much. I tried to take a sensible look at the situation. Sadly the comments section has been overrun by pro-Russian trolls and bots. It really is quite depressing how it is becoming impossible to have a decent conversation anymore.

[@Aussie-Mocha]

@@JamesKerLindsay I agree full heartedly!! But when that decent conversation does come around, it is extra special and invigorating. Keep going. Your voice is valuable now and will be valuable in the future for those who want to understand the past. Honestly, THANK YOU 🙏

[@vgames6792]

Go to The New Atlas. This is propaganda grabage

[@barmaley4159]

as long as there are "professors" and "experts" such as this guy - we keep being misled and lied to... in fact, he is coping so hard... he knows he is a chihuahua and knows his role (which is barking)...

[@Gaminiheraliyawala]

Dear Prof. James, this is a very professional and balanced way of reporting of the contemporary situation in the background of street demonstrations, war in Ukraine, GOV moves and Russian invasion. I too 100% agree with you on the final remarks with regard to the position of prevailing situation in contrast to Moldova affairs, influence from western allies and likely expectations of Moscow in terms of geo-political threats & interests.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you very much indeed. I really appreciate the kind words of support.

[@borisjessop2352]

The Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) was enacted in 1938. FARA requires certain agents of foreign principals who are engaged in political activities or other activities specified under the statute to make periodic public disclosure of their relationship with the foreign principal, as well as activities, receipts and disbursements in support of those activities. Disclosure of the required information facilitates evaluation by the government and the American people of the activities of such persons in light of their function as foreign agents. The FARA Unit of the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section (CES) in the National Security Division (NSD) is responsible for the administration and enforcement of FARA.

[@jamessmithers4456]

What is wrong with transparency of the finances? It is a requirement in US, Jpn, and plenty other countries? Why is it a problem if Georgia decides to adopt similar regulations.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Read the discussion here in the comments. I have addressed this point many times.

[@miloskovacevic8912]

If Abkhazia and South Ossetia are under Russian occupation, would it be correct to say that Kosovo is under Nato or US occupation?

[@miloskovacevic8912]

Ok, thanks for nothing

[@JamesKerLindsay]

I have been very critical about Kosovo’s Declaration of Independence and have written extensively about it. www.amazon.com/Kosovo-put-osporenoj-drzavnosti-Balkanu/dp/8617175230 But I think we must also recognise that there is a very real difference between the two cases. Kosovo effectively exists as an independent state. (Even though I know you will cite the presence of NATO troops, but they are there more to protect Serbs in Kosovo than keeps Serbs out.) The historical context is also very different. Also, the US and EU does not use it as a tool of leverage over Belgrade. In fact, it does exactly the opposite.

[@miloskovacevic8912]

If your point is that the answer is very obvious and that im stupid for asking, ill have to insist and ask for a real answer because i have a feeling that your "obvious answer" sums up to "Russia is evil persuing interests and Serbs committed genocide". If thats the case, id again have to thank you for nothing.

[@miloskovacevic8912]

Thank you very much for your reply. id only argue two points. 1. that US and NATO forces oversaw the ethnic cleansing of 200.000 Serbs from Kosovo between the year 1999.-2004. so i find the statement that they were "protecting Serbs" to be wrong. 2. That the statement that "US and EU did not use Kosovo as a tool of leverage" is very debatable. Many would argue that that is the sole reason why Kosovo's independence was so fiercely supported (even with military force conducted on non-military targets in Serbia) with such blatant disregard for international law which im sure you re aware of.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

@@miloskovacevic8912 Thanks Milos. I agree that there was a huge problem with Serbian ethnic cleansing in 1999. But we also have to recognise that the situation was chaotic and there was certainly a lot of score settling from Albanians after the ethnic cleansing commuted by Serbian forces under Milošević. This doesn’t make it right. But I spoke to NATO soldiers from that time and they explained the sheer mess they faced going in. But the failure to stop the 2004 riots was a serious NATO failing. But this is very different from the purposeful and permanent ethnic cleansing Russia oversaw in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. As for the continuing leverage, my point is that the West doesn’t actually want a frozen conflict in Kosovo. It wants it over and done with. Russia on the other hand needs frozen conflicts. It is how it exerts influence.

[@vondagrubb4623]

This is excellent. Thank you.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thank you so much!

[@idraote]

The real tragedy there is that the majority of Georgians want a western-oriented political system, less corruption and more freedom while the powers that be want to stay close to Russia.

[@allyeneedislove]

I don't see why the act is moving closer to Moscow when the US has a similar act. All about the narrative.

[@attilamarics3374]

@@xunqianbaidu6917 Well thats just your assumption. Georgia is also very western meddeling riddne. I still remmebe rtheir preasident eating his tie during the war. Or the fatc that the Us always sponsors the opposition, a thign thats illegal in the US.

[@handsomegeorgianbankrobber3779]

Im sorry but who elected the Georgian government? Or did they come to power through a coup d´etat? If you dont like a pro-Russian government then SIMPLY DONT VOTE THEM INTO POWER.

[@2639theboss]

​@@attilamarics3374 Thats incoherent nonsense. Finish your shift in Russia then get back to us.

[@kntrishdekanoidze1382]

​@@2639thebossno it is not us every year has been helping oppositon.

[@philsidock]

If there's one thing I learned about geopolitics, it's that countries often have confusing and contradictory relationships with Mother Russia. I've heard great things about Georgia, and I plan on visiting Tbilisi soon. I'll read up more on the country before going, but thanks again for the great video!

[@Astronist]

It would be helpful to know how serious the separatist movements in Abkhazia and South Ossetia are. Do they in fact contain homogenous populations of some ethnicity different from the Georgian, or are they basically Georgians who have been recruited as separatists by Moscow for its purpose of dividing up the country, in the same way as was the population of Donbas in Ukraine?

[@jackyex]

Both Groups are distinct ethnic groups, Abkhazians are Muslims from a group similar to the Circassiaanss while the Ossetians are a Iranic Group who have ethnic kin across the border in Russia, in the North Ossetia region. But Russia did use both as a way to weaken Georgia of course.

[@Restrocket]

This has nothing in common with Donbas. Ukrainians and Russian can easily morf into eachother and noone gets deported or anything like that. You just have to accept other rulers/ideology. The conflict there is not ethnic based. Georgian conflicts are really ethnic based. Abkhazian one is especially strange one cause half of Abkhazia population was ethnically Georgian and they all got deported

[@belstar1128]

they have or i should say had their own language and culture but these days its like 90% Russians living there

[@aa-ge2ke]

​@@belstar1128вообще нет

[@mr.g2195]

The closer Georgia becomes to NATO and EU, the more chance of being another Ukraine.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Only because Russia won’t respect its sovereignty. Let’s not blame this on the EU. Georgia is a free country. It should have the right to choose its future without fear of Russia intimidation.

[@mr.g2195]

​@@JamesKerLindsay The West Bombarded Yugoslavia, Sudan, Somalia, Iraq, Lybia, Syria, Afghanistan, Vietnam, etc. Is this how the West respects the sovereignty of other countries. The West is bullying any nation that does not bend to them.

[@AGS363]

I honestly do not see why this "foreign agent" law is bad. It seems like a step towards more transparency regarding NGOs. And as far I know, there is no exemption made for Russian organizations. The opposition would be wise to spend more time organizing for the election, than to make this ruckus that will fade with yesterday's headlines.

[@doppovulkan8449]

It's a law that evolves. A similar law was introduced in Russia, and now it's being introduced in a country where it's led by an Oligarch with Russian money who own's 1/3rd of the country's GDP, alongside an "Offshore law" which also will allow those in the parliament to far easily bring in goods from other countries and make it easier to launder money. When looking at the bigger picture you begin to realize that they basically want to slowly seize the country far easier and more than they currently have. But yeah our opposition is a gaggle of stupids.

[@Georgian_guy-1]

Bro do you even have a common sense? How can you not understand it😭

[@kingdavid6476]

He forgot to tell us that the United States has this law long before Russia. Hypocrisy.

[@attilamarics3374]

@@doppovulkan8449 A similar law is also in many westenr countries. Not to mention your comment means exactly nothing.

[@AGS363]

@@doppovulkan8449 So now it makes sense. Thank you for this explanation!

[@bobwilk5155]

Georgian are smart people and knows that Future is with Russia and BRICS.

[@MarkusHirsch-Surlemont]

Sorry, was reden sie hier das Narrativ vom Putler! Sie wollen doch kein Demokratisches und Freies Georgien! Es lebe das Demokratische und Freie Georgien 🇬🇪

[@raymondmckinley5955]

I think no country should allow foreign funding of political parties in their country.

[@vgames6792]

😅😅😅😅😅 Well yeah. That is why you need propaganda like this to tell you anotherwise

[@angelobkoljenovic9528]

As always you have been the most informative and helpful to people who are interested in learning about strategies and politics in the world 🌎 as historian i have always supported you work

[@davidmaisel8062]

Having followed and researched this this situation in Georgia closely, there are valid concerns on both sides. What is absolutely clear is both the Dream coalition and opposition desire to join the EU. What's also clear is both sides want to see the reunification of Abkhazia and South Osetia. The latter presents a dilemma as both regions have a large electorate who support strong ties with the Russian Federation. This would be a voting block in Georgian national elections and potentially at odds with the current majority positions on the EU. On the negative side, both the Dream party and the opposition have been accused of authoritarian practices, restrictions on media and limiting the independence of the judicial branch of government. The EU and US have also taken a heavy handed approach via organizations such as the Atlantic Counsel, Freedom House and Transparency International, to name a few in influencing national elections and policy which some feel could drag Georgia into a military conflict with Russia. The situation is complicated and the choices moving forward are Georgia's to make.

[@thecolonel6026]

...and China has entered the arena, offering a "Third Way" to prosperity, balanced between Russia and the EU...

[@roddychristodoulou9111]

I very much doubt that Georgia is moving closer to Russia and the recent and ongoing demonstrations are testament to this . The best this government can achieve is separate but shared interests , I know of no other government that has this thin line to tread in order to please both sides . As we've seen many times before American and western interests will be meddling in Georgia's affairs until it breaks away fro Russia completely . Of course Russia is not going to allow this without a fight of some kind so Georgia is stuck in the middle of the old east west psyche .

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks Roddy. That’s exactly my view. Contrary to a lot of the commentary in the international media that says that Georgia must be aligning with Russia, I think there is something more subtle and interesting going on. (And I just wish that some of the commenters here immediately leaping to conclusions that I am also saying that Georgia is aligning with Moscow would watch the video first!)

[@svenhanson398]

@@JamesKerLindsay I watched it and it's not there and it should have been there. The things missing, US has the same rules so they are not outlandish and USA is a hypocritical critic, US meddles via NGOs, which really are not NGOs. And the conflict with Russia started 2008 when NATO declared Georgia and Ukraine would join NATO and dismissed Russian protests. A few months later Russia went in. Then NATO did the same with Ukraine, by repeating it, full well knowing how the Russians would react and probably act. You basically swing the red cloth before the bull and then blame the bull for attacking.

[@vangelisskia214]

Once again a fully biased prowestern 'analysis' by the professor...

[@vgames6792]

I call it fascist propaganda, why? bca it is

[@TheLocalLt]

Thanks for the video professor, obviously this is a sensitive subject for Moscow given how invested they are in the issue… it appears to strike quite a nerve!

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks, LocalLt. It has been rather depressing to see the sheer volume of pro-Russian comments on this video. It’s also clear that most haven’t even watched it. Sadly, the watch time is down, so this is also damaging to the video’s success. This is certainly one of those days when I ask myself why do I even bother with YT anymore!

[@TheLocalLt]

@@JamesKerLindsay at least you can take some solace in knowing that the lower watch time indeed indicates that these comments have been intentionally “brigaded” by state-backed interests, rather than representing the legitimate opinion of your viewer base. Sometimes I wonder whether western intelligence agencies shouldn’t consider investing in something similar, to push back on issues related to Ukraine, Israel, etc., though I suppose that’s what sets us apart from them. Nonetheless it does seem like a significant vulnerability in the all important “war of ideas”.

[@TangBengYong]

Thanks for an informative video. I think we should distinguish between the interests of Georgia as a country and the interests of the ruling elite who want to stay in power even if it takes going against their country's interests to do so. It shows how when democracy is eroded by authoritarian power-hungry parties, those work against their own country's interests and the people have no say in what happens to their country. This is the same as what is happening in Russia, Hungary, and Singapore.

[@svenhanson398]

And USA and UK obviously

[@catalincarceanu7991]

@@svenhanson398 no.I am sorry but both USA and UK have all the interests to cut EU from Russia's resources.USA can not accept a very strong,economically, Europe becoming a challenger to the US hegemonical role in the world and that for encouraged the Brexit,invented Covid and instigated the actual war in Ukraine. UK has a problem with the potential separatist movements from Northern Ireland,Gibraltar and Scotland which might be tented to leave UK and to Join EU.If EU will be less atractive ,they will prefer to stay within UK .That for Boris Johnson instigated Ukraine to fight till the last ukrainian.I know,that's perfid and ruthless but serve to the US and UK national interests.On the other way,EU and NATO could become less atractive for Georgia also .Russia is not really an enemy for US and UK ,but she play the role off eastern beast in western retorics.

[@StephenHeiner]

I don’t understand how it’s “anti democratic” to identify foreign agencies!

[@mandrews1245]

Interesting how you state the new NGO (Non-government organization) is similar to Russia law you don't mention that the USA has legislation regulating NGO financing as well.

[@ro--M]

Please elaborate: in which specific ways these laws are similar? You guys keep throwing these vague ideas in the air without actually ever having a single valid argumentation. X has a law and Y has a law doesn't mean those laws have anything in common.

[@vgames6792]

This is cia propaganda, so its not that interesting

[@vgames6792]

@@ro--M not similar but EXACT!!! Go to The New Atlas for more info

[@PeterGeci]

It is simple ,the Government of Georgia is dealing with the reality ,unlike Ukraine ,Georgia is much smaller and would be under Russian control within days , so they better keep a good relationship with Russia and stay independent, than risking a total destruction like Ukraine and facing with a total collapse of the country ,demographic ,infrastructure and society. The west will drop Ukraine like a hot potato if it get too expensive ,and would do the same with Georgia in a heard beat . The world is shifting away from the falling superpower USA to a more multipolar world ,smart politicians might recognise this and have a more careful approach to other power centres, however most of the politicians in about 50 country's called the west have not so far recognized, that associating itself with the US and his vasal states (EU) might be very dangerous perhaps more dangerous than having good relationships with other powers such Russia or China or India. The creation of so called orange revolutions under massive support from the US (and other country's ) intelligence services can only be stopped with transparency.If the people recognize that they being used by a foren power,it might stop them. I believe this new law is a right step to independence of the Georgian people ,and that is the reason the west hate it so much.

[@eugenegvozdetsky2673]

Which do you think is more probable: the Russian annexation of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, or their reintegration into Georgia?

[@the0ne809]

Russia has de facto control those areas. Georgia cannot fight Russia. The country is too small and they are not getting weapons to fight back. if there was ever a time for Georgia to take that territory back is now since Russia is too busy in Ukraine. Ukraine has issues with manpower and they have more than 12x Georgia's population so imagine Georgia fighting back to gain its territories. Maybe they will have to wait until Putin dies but I doubt much will charge after anyway.

[@Restrocket]

It's completely random. It depends on a few people with Alzheimer

[@itsorganic7739]

Neither, South Ossetia wants to Join Russia, and even voted to do so, Russia Declined. Abkhazia I don't believe wants to join Russia (they're those who do and those who don't), and nor is Moscow pushing for it. That being said, Russia will not allow georgia to overrun these 2 areas that they consider to be soverign countries.

[@benjauron5873]

​@@itsorganic7739"Russia will not allow?" And how precisely would Russia stop Georgia if Georgia wanted the places back? Other than quitting Ukraine and moving their army south.

[@benjauron5873]

Both are unlikely. Eventual independence for both is most likely, though probably at least a decade away. Between your two options, eventual reintegration with Georgia is most likely, but, again, is probably some years away. Russia is severely weakened and only getting weaker every day.

[@catadoxas]

georgia doesnt even talk to Russia. their entire communication is still passed trough us swiss

[@NkMattson]

We have similar laws in the USA, and most of the west why is this law demanding transparency so awkward??

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Because Georgia is not like the US. In America there are many organisations that hold the governments, media, political parties to account and receive private funding from US sources. This is not the same in Georgia. Many organisations rely on external funding to do their work. This is an attempt to intimidate them. The contesxt of the two cases is crucial.

[@vgames6792]

BCA it would expose that Georgia is being politically captured by them. The New Atlas explain this in detail

[@Cquinn70]

do you write scripts? and what camera set up do you use?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Yes. I write all my own scripts. (By far the longest part of the process.) As for my camera set up, I use a Sony FX3 with a Sony 35mm f1.8 lens. (I have an amazing 24mm f1.4 lens, but it’s too wide for my space. But it turns out that it’s a beast for astrohotography!) I’ve just started using the Elgato Prompter as my main teleprompter. My mic is a Sennheiser MKH50 and I use an Aputure 50d with a lantern as my main light. (I am in a small room.) I also use small Aputure MC RGB lights as my practicals and for fill lighting. These little things are brilliant. It’s taken me several years to get all this together and it’s complete overkill for YT talking head vids. I started with a really basic setup on a Canon M50. But I love my setup now, as you can probably tell! :-)

[@tengizpimpashvili1311]

It's a good law Every civilized country has this law

[@ro--M]

Like Russia and now Georgia. Civilized countries have laws for transparency and you guys purposefully try to equal them with this Foreign Agent Law which is a censorship law.

[@gikasmith5511]

9:10 - I commend your fair analysis of the situation in my country, let me say a word or two on the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Georgia has Russian tanks 45 km from its capital, so it had to be careful. You also had to say that Georgia accepted about 25,000 refugees from Ukraine and provides them with FULL support - food, shelter, schooling for the young.

[@Feinei]

If I may offer a slight criticism - many places make the link that this proposed law is a Russian law and used to increase authoritarianism, almost nobody explains *why* exactly this happens. There's very good information available on how Russia used it and how it progressively escalated, but even I had to go out and research it, it's really not that self-evident.

[@mandrews1245]

Then you should investigate USA for NGO's. The US has many laws controlling NGO's for taxation, formation and financing.

[@Al-fz2qi]

Dear Prof. Once again a perfectly compliant post has been removed. It addressed the issue raised for open discussion in three of your videos - the question of Georgia, Slovakia, Hungary seemingly turning to Russia. I put forward the argument that they had no love of Russia but felt the need to adopt the pragmatic approach - in other words, protect their sovereignty by maintaining good relations with neighbouring countries on either side of them and making decisions solely on the basis of their national interest. This in response to what they saw happen to Ukraine since 2014. Not a lot there to be classed as "abusive" or "misinformation". Have you a view on why the moderators of this site are preventing us from having the cordial interchange of views we both espouse? You will undoubtedly agree that defending freedom of speech is about tolerating views that you strongly dislike. Saying that the views expressed are pro-Russian or pro-America or pro-Israel or pro-Palestine is not a basis for censorship. The antidote to perceived misinformation is more freedom of speech not less. Presumably you agree?

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Sorry. YT keeps doing this. Many apologies. I’m all for polite and informed discussion. I only delete abusive comments.

[@Al-fz2qi]

@@JamesKerLindsay From your part, that is reassuring. Thank you. Is it certain words or phrases that trigger some YT algorithm? Would appreciate any guidance you may have on this. I totally agree there is no place for abusive comments. Is it controversial to say that certain elements seem to want to control the narrative and shut down debate. I criticize the West because I do not like the direction of travel and I want it better to succeed - I fear that our tradition of free speech is under threat. Have you heard Ms Van der Leyen's worrying speech on debunking and prebunking - this is what I mean by trying to control the narrative.

[@TheGunteraz]

The ruzzian bots are out in full force in the comment section lol.

[@kntrishdekanoidze1382]

Keep calling everyone who disagrees with you bots . People will definitely listen to your hivemind.

[@dzonikg]

Gergia govermant is Pro Western ..West - "Georgria is democracy!!" . West when same government when not to pro western - west - "Georgia is dictatorship!!".

[@RandomAussieGuy87]

They sure are, repeating the same propaganda talking points as each other.

[@Daniel-vw7mw]

So when the crowds are protesting against the government they are getting paid by the west?😊

[@davidgamtenadze4045]

@@kntrishdekanoidze1382ქართველი მაინც არ იყო

[@xinvenx7890]

Hi prof. it is not diffusing fake perspectives that you can convince people who have opened their eyes.

[@sachavitorovich6866]

I am not able to leave any comment... you should listen to yourself and find out WHY...

[@alittlestoryy]

As a turkish from black sea, no matter what will happen in the future, my heart is with georgians. Do what is right for you, not for the west or east. Don’t let anyone to let you in the same position as ukranians. We love you and support you from turkey.

[@Yalbou]

Its funny seeing the europeans and anglos seethe about this

[@2639theboss]

Yeah its not the Georgians that are upset, those tens of thousands of protesters are actually lizardpeople from the CIA.

[@abadanarcisse9044]

La Géorgie a choisie son indépendance, et si elle se rapproche de la Russie où est le problème ?

[@panchendrarajankandiah6572]

US, get out of Europe.

[@ro--M]

We Europeans want to do business with US but your comment has nothing to do this video.

[@vgames6792]

@@ro--M I dont!!! I want cheap resources from Russia. What i get from USA apart from war, propaganda, woke, plandemics?

[@andrewsarantakes639]

Great video. Georgia seems to be quite conflicted. Small nations seem to be concerned about their sovereignty to avoid domination by larger political entities. Great topic & clear fair analysis.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks a lot Andrew. Always appreciated! I’ve been rather unhappy about much of the coverage of events in Georgia. It seems to fall back on lazy thinking that really doesn’t make a lot of sense.

[@jamessmithers4456]

Why did Tbilisi start the war in August 2008? That was crazy. Canada starting war against US would face 100 to 1 odds of succeeding. Georgia starting a war against Russia had 1,000,000 to 1 odds of succeeding. This has to be one of the craziest and most irresponsible actions of any Georgian government ever.

[@levondemirian5106]

Would you be able to assess political and historical values of Armenia and Azerbaijan as you did Georgia.

[@JamesKerLindsay]

Thanks. I did one on Armenia already: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYKZg2h5r6iAoaMsi=A9RNAHuxvbqaNtv8

[@ВладимирСмольников-х8т]

Грузины оказались умнее, чем украинцы.

[@tiredox3788]

With a lot of Russians moving to Georgia. I won't be surprise if Russia tries something similar to Ukraine again.

[@YujiroHanmaaaa]

True. And many of them giving birth to Russian children. This will have a big impact in 20 - 20 years

[@tamarkapanadze3485]

@@YujiroHanmaaaa There were lot of Russians in Soviet Georgia (during Soviet Union), but after USSR broke down, the most of them moved away from the independent Georgia, together with the families. 20-30 years time period is really long and is difficult to predict-what will happen.

[@vgames6792]

like what?

[@a.s.etaboo8769]

And sanctions by Georgia against Russia, would hurt Georgia more than Russia

[@Prebaaaaaaaaaaaaaa]

Video on Bosnia and the UN Resolution pretty please professor? 👉🥺👈

[@bilic8094]

107 countries didn't vote for it.

[@Prebaaaaaaaaaaaaaa]

@@bilic8094 if you're so proud of that, why does your comment come off as an insecure, spiteful reaction to a comment that merely mentions the resolution?

[@bilic8094]

@@Prebaaaaaaaaaaaaaa Not at all I was just surprised by the numbers.

[@Prebaaaaaaaaaaaaaa]

@@bilic8094 sure thing bub, you were just so surprised you had do randomly mention it, and your comment doesn't sound spiteful at all. Smiješno hahahahhaha

[@prasitclinic3058]

Georgia should maintain its neutrality and trade with all countries. Georgia will benefit more than being a pawn for the EU and NATO. Georgia should learn from Switzerland and Austria. Georgian politicians and administrators must not be selfish with the benefits offered by the superpowers. I love Georgia and hope Georgia is peaceful and prosperous.

[@markogavrilovic2583]

Govt. of Georgia is doing great job looking their own country interest.

[@Georgian_guy-1]

Russian bots

[@kingdavid6476]

@@Georgian_guy-1 For telling dombs the truth?

[@YujiroHanmaaaa]

@@kingdavid6476 Georgia wants to develop and prosper. No small country near Russia can prosper being a russian vassal. This is why Baltics, Finland and Poland decided to look towards west and now days these countries have better livingstandard than Russia

[@kingdavid6476]

@@YujiroHanmaaaa They also have the right not to be Ukraine or western puppet against a bigger brother.

[@YujiroHanmaaaa]

@@kingdavid6476 countries chose to be " Western puppet ".... russia force countries to be " russian puppet "

[@telmaryss]

Glory to the Georgian people! Don't let the Russians dictate what to do!

[@yogikarl]

Don't call it NATO family . please . that's too cosy . maybe you call it : NATO Club . And I'm still not clear if : it's a friend Club or a buddy club or a business club or a Mafia Club

[@demitrisharilaou9536]

The Georgia people are coming to their sences

[@room4njoy]

Joining the European Union is a very bad idea for Georgia due to the timing. With some western countries escalating this war in Ukraine to a war upon Russia by sending in weaponry into Ukraine for their troops to launch attacks upon Russia, then this has transitioned the War in Ukraine (of the past) to something far more dangerous and escalatory (for the future). Very soon, it could come to a war with the first usage of nuclear weapons since 1945. World war 3 is getting far closer than ever, and if I was in charge of Georgia, I certainly would delay any decisions for joining the EU, and Absolutely no way would I bring Georgia into NATO. As it's because of the choice to expand NATO closer to the borders of Russia is what triggered the wars since 2008 in the first place, as all Russia wanted was to keep it from getting closer and keeping countries next to their borders in a state of neutrality. But NATO and EU had opposite ideas, which is what has now led us to a far more dangerous world. It seems like being Neutral is forbidden. Now it's that case of having to choose sides in this world. Unipolar world against Multipolar world, as after all, it's The West (Unipolar world) which is making countries to have to choose sides

[@larrysherk]

Geography and history make clear that the natural ally for Goergia is Russia. Is this just more American meddling ?

[@dragosstanciu9866]

The problem is that Russia is not a natural ally, Georgia was under Russian/Soviet occupation until independence in 1991.

[@attilamarics3374]

@@dragosstanciu9866 You are spamming that line everywhere. Its not realy true.

[@Piden-l4b]

Geographical Vladivostok is China.

[@createdforthemoment6740]

​@@attilamarics3374i mean, they're still under Russian occupation so I guess you could say its not true. Otherwise, it's like a lot of the former Soviet countries, who were under horrible occupation and moved west the first chance they got and are now thriving. The countries that tried to peacefully play to both sides like Moldova, Ukraine and Georgia are now occupied by Russia for doing so. Hell, theres a reason the former Soviet Union is the highest per GPD providers of weapons for Ukraine. They want nothing to do with the country that damaged and abused their countries for so long.

[@attilamarics3374]

@@createdforthemoment6740 Parts seceding isnt occupation really. Not to mention the problems still started with western meddeling.

[@vasilchovelidze6174]

Fantastic analysis. Thank you!

[@vgames6792]

Its propaganda full of lies, nothing else. If you want analysis on any of this go to The New Atlas

[@lovetohate028]

Lmao "you aren't allowed to identify our NGOs as ours! Transparency is undemocratic!"

[@DipakBose-bq1vv]

Georgia is clever, not a stupid like Ukraine.

[@MarkVrem]

I had a hard with this story. I hold transparency pretty high in my value system, I suppose. I did not see any transparency alternatives provided by the west. The whole thing just felt disjointed, hard to get behind. I avoided talking people about this story. No talking points to stand behind lol.

[@Decoy0527]

Let's just agree to disagree. This legislation doesn't limit funding coming into poor countries, except for funding for which donors (Sorus ? CIA ?) have nefarious intent and desire anonymity. Small, poor countries are very vulnerable to NGO activity. They certainly need more protection via disclosure than larger, wealthier countries. I'll add that I'm more disillusioned with my countries (USA) foreign policy than ever before. What we have done to the people of Ukraine is dishonorable and unforgiving. It almost equals the harm "we" did to the people of Iraq and Libya. I'll be happy when a more peaceful multi polar world arrives. Thanks for the reply, and I look forward to other videos.

[@feargach2107]

The EU-US played the exact same game in Ukriaine with disasterous results.

[@DacianRider]

fake orc narrative