**Transparency in Donor Funding: A Simple yet Essential Requirement**
In a recent statement, the First Vice Speaker of Parliament, Gia Volski, emphasized the importance of transparency in donor funding. He was responding to comments made by the Speaker of the Georgian Parliament regarding the British Embassy. According to Volski, it’s not too much to ask for embassies or donors to publish information about the amount of funds they receive and the projects they finance.
This demand seems elementary, yet it has significant implications. As Volski pointed out, transparency is essential in removing question marks from the agenda. If Western countries, like the United Kingdom, follow this basic requirement, it would resolve many issues related to funding scenarios for extremism. A democratic state should naturally prioritize transparency, and any legitimate questions or concerns would be addressed.
**A Call for Transparency**
The Speaker of Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, had previously called on the British Embassy to disclose its funding information in relation to the 2024 parliamentary elections. He also invited anyone with knowledge about the embassy’s funding to come forward. This call for transparency is not limited to the British Embassy; it applies to all donors and organizations involved in financing projects in Georgia.
**The Importance of Transparency**
In a democratic state, transparency is essential in maintaining public trust and ensuring accountability. Donors, including embassies and foundations, have a responsibility to publish information about their funding and projects. By doing so, they demonstrate their commitment to transparency and good governance.
As Volski stated, “Any question, any issue will be removed from the agenda in the case of transparency.” This is a simple yet essential requirement that should not be ignored. The British Embassy’s decision to cancel planned grant proposals aimed at supporting transparency and competitiveness in municipal elections raises further questions about their commitment to transparency.
**A Legitimate Question**
As long as there is a problem with transparency, it remains a legitimate question whether money is entering the political field – money controlled by parties or organizations receiving donations, including television stations. The Georgian government must finalize its resolution on grant procedures and establish mechanisms for approving grants to ensure transparency in donor funding.
In conclusion, transparency in donor funding is not just a nice-to-have; it’s an essential requirement in a democratic state. Embassies, donors, and organizations involved in financing projects in Georgia must prioritize transparency to maintain public trust and ensure accountability.
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