The Georgian Parliament's approval of a controversial "foreign agents" bill, despite widespread protests and a presidential veto, has sparked significant debate in Georgia and beyond.

According to numerous critics, the bill which mandates NGOs and media outlets with over 20% foreign funding to register as foreign agents, threatens media freedom and jeopardizes Georgia's EU membership prospects. The government justified the law as a measure to prevent foreign interference and safeguard sovereignty. However, opponents compare it to Russian laws used to suppress dissent, fearing it will align Georgia closer to Russian influence. The government's abrupt foreign policy shift has led to massive protests, increased harassment, and violent attacks. Despite evidence, no arrests have been made, indicating potential issues with the independence of investigative agencies. The coordinated nature of the attacks suggests an intent to intimidate activists and protesters, with government responses often blaming victims for provoking violence.

The panel will host two distinguished diplomats and public intellectuals to discuss the Georgia's European future and the future of the EU in the region. The guest speakers insights have been featured on platforms such as CNN, Aljazeera, France24, and other leading international forums: 

• Ambassador Dr. Natalie Sabanadze (PhD, Oxford): Former Head of the Georgian mission to the EU, currently Senior Research Fellow at Chatham House.
• Dr. Thorniké Gordadze (PhD, SciencesPo): Former Deputy Foreign Minister of Georgia and Chief Negotiator for Georgia on the Association Agreement and the Free Trade Agreement, currently Professor at SciencesPo Paris and Fellow at Jacques Delors Institute.
• Key Organizer and Moderator: Dr. Tornike Metreveli (Lund)