**Georgian Parliament Speaker Slams EU Delegation Over Funding of Extremist Groups**
The Speaker of the Georgian Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, has strongly criticized the EU Delegation in Georgia for its handling of funds allocated to support democratic institutions. In a statement shared on social media, Papuashvili accused the Delegation of spreading disinformation and rejecting democratic values.
Papuashvili’s comments come after allegations emerged that several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) funded by the EU Delegation have ties to extremist groups. The Speaker specifically mentioned the Georgian Young Lawyers’ Association and the Social Justice Center, which are both funded primarily by the EU Delegation.
**Concerns Over Misuse of EU Funds**
Papuashvili expressed concern that the EU Delegation has failed to condemn violence, hate speech, and disinformation promoted by individuals and groups it has funded. This, he argues, is a violation of international legal obligations, including the Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness.
“It’s alarming that the EU Delegation has not once condemned the violence, hate, and disinformation coming from individuals it has funded,” Papuashvili wrote. “Responsible donor behavior is not a choice but an international legal obligation.”
**Rejection of Democratic Institutions**
Papuashvili views the EU Delegation’s actions as a rejection of democratic institutions and values. He believes that by funding extremist groups, the Delegation is creating an ideological basis for their activities and undermining democratic norms.
“Calling a parliament elected by the people ‘illegitimate,’ together with disinformation, is a rejection of democratic institutions,” Papuashvili stated. “The goal of denying democracy is to create an ideological basis and false legitimacy for extremism.”
**A Call to Action**
Papuashvili is urging the EU Delegation to clarify its stance on the issue and take concrete steps to address the misuse of funds allocated to support democratic institutions. The Speaker’s statement has sparked a heated debate in Georgia, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability from international organizations.
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