In a significant development for U.S.-Georgia relations, ten additional senators have pledged their support for the bipartisan Georgian People’s Act. This announcement, made by Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Jim Risch, underscores a growing commitment among American lawmakers to bolster Georgia’s aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration.
A Strong Coalition of Support
The Georgian People’s Act has garnered attention from a diverse group of senators, including Tom Tillis, Mitt Romney, Jeff Merkley, John Cornyn, Chris Murphy, Dan Sullivan, Angus King, Todd Young, Sheldon Whitehouse, and George Helmy. Their collective support reflects a unified stance on the importance of Georgia’s political landscape and its relationship with the United States.
Senator Shaheen expressed her satisfaction with the bipartisan backing, stating, “I am glad that a significant number of my colleagues in the Senate supported the Georgian People’s Act and realized that the current situation in Georgia cannot be postponed.” She emphasized that this legislation sends a clear message of solidarity with the Georgian people, regardless of the political party in power in Washington.
Key Provisions of the Georgian People’s Act
The Georgian People’s Act is structured around two main components aimed at supporting Georgia’s democratic aspirations and holding accountable those who undermine its sovereignty.
First Component:
- Consequences for Government Officials: The Act outlines specific consequences for Georgian government representatives who obstruct Euro-Atlantic integration. This includes travel restrictions for individuals involved in promoting the controversial “Foreign Agents” law and sanctions against those responsible for human rights violations and corruption.
- Long-term Strategy Development: It mandates the State Department to create a long-term strategy for Georgia, which includes a review of military aid and a suspension of funding that supports the current Georgian government.
- Suspension of Strategic Dialogue: The Act calls for a long suspension of the U.S.-Georgia strategic dialogue until significant changes are made.
Second Component:
- Support for Civil Society: The Act emphasizes the U.S. Senate’s commitment to supporting Georgian civil society, particularly in light of recent political events.
- Funding for Democracy Projects: It allocates at least $50 million to support democracy and rule of law development projects in Georgia.
- Assessment of Foreign Influence: The legislation requires reports to evaluate foreign influence in Georgia and efforts to support political prisoners.
Senators Shaheen and Risch have crafted this comprehensive package to ensure that U.S. policies align with the aspirations of the Georgian people for a democratic and integrated future.
As the Senate reconvenes in November, the Georgian People’s Act stands as a testament to the bipartisan commitment to support Georgia in its pursuit of European integration and democratic governance. The growing coalition of support among U.S. senators signals a robust partnership that aims to empower the Georgian people in their quest for a brighter future.
