**NGOs Must Justify Spending Amid FARA and Grants Laws Probe**
In a press conference, the head of Georgia’s Anti-Corruption Bureau, Razhden Kuprashvili, sent a clear message to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the country: be transparent or face consequences. The warning comes as the bureau investigates potential violations of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) and Grants laws.
According to Kuprashvili, honest NGOs will be protected, but those that fail to comply with the law will face scrutiny. He emphasized that anyone who disregards court decisions and destroys case materials will be considered a serious offender. The bureau will examine all facts related to NGO activities within the scope of these regulations and provide detailed information to both organizations and the public.
**Questioning Spending**
Kuprashvili raised questions about the spending habits of certain NGOs, which claim to engage in advocacy and protect the rights of beneficiaries. He pointed out that purchases like helmets, masks, and flags worth thousands or tens of thousands of laris were made by these organizations. These expenditures seem inconsistent with their stated goals.
“This is a bad fact,” Kuprashvili said. “If an organization says they are engaged in advocacy and protecting the rights of a beneficiary, then how do they explain purchasing helmets, masks, and flags?”
**Protecting Legitimate NGOs**
On the other hand, Kuprashvili reassured that legitimate NGOs will be safeguarded during this investigation. He promised to provide detailed information about their activities and expenditures.
The FARA and Grants laws are designed to ensure transparency and accountability in NGO operations. The Anti-Corruption Bureau’s probe aims to identify potential violations of these regulations and hold responsible parties accountable.
**What’s Next?**
As the investigation unfolds, NGOs will be expected to justify their spending and provide clarity on their activities. Those who fail to comply with the law may face serious consequences.
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