**Georgia’s Speaker of Parliament Calls Out Foreign Interference in Democracy**
In a strong statement at the world conference of speakers of parliaments in Geneva, Shalva Papuashvili, the Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, warned that excessive foreign interference must be stopped and replaced with respect for national sovereignty. He also emphasized the importance of genuine civil society and democracy.
According to Papuashvili, Georgia is one of several countries where democracy has been undermined by foreign political meddling. He pointed out that foreign-funded non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have been mistakenly identified as representing the people, rather than being a part of the country’s true civil society. This, he said, has led to a situation where NGOs are seen as a counterbalance to the government, even though they do not represent the will of the people.
Papuashvili noted that this manipulation is a direct blow to democracy and undermines the legitimacy of the government. He argued that true civil society should be independent and funded by the people, rather than relying on foreign aid. This, he said, would ensure that the interests of democracy and the rule of law are respected.
**A Call for Sovereignty and Democracy**
Papuashvili’s statement is a call to action for countries around the world to prioritize national sovereignty and democracy over foreign interference. He emphasized that the principles of sovereignty, democracy, and non-interference in internal affairs should be respected and upheld.
In an era where global politics are increasingly complex, Papuashvili’s words serve as a reminder that democracy is not just about elections and institutions, but also about respecting the will of the people and their right to self-determination. By prioritizing national sovereignty and genuine civil society, countries can build stronger, more resilient democracies that truly represent the needs and interests of their citizens.
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