U.S. Helsinki Co-Chairman Congressman Joe Wilson, along with Congressmen Steve Cohen, Richard Hudson, and Marc Veasey, have expressed approval following the House’s passage of the bipartisan Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia’s Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence (MEGOBARI) Act. This legislation aims to support democratic practices, human rights, and the rule of law in Georgia while countering authoritarian influences from Russia.
“The passage of the MEGOBARI Act demonstrates American support for the freedom-loving Georgian people and rejection of the illegitimate, America-hating Georgian Dream regime,” stated Congressman Wilson. He emphasized that free elections and the release of political prisoners are essential steps forward.
Congressman Cohen remarked on the act’s significance: “The passage of the MEGOBARI Act sends a strong message to the Georgian people that the U.S. supports them as they fight for their democracy.” He highlighted concerns about corruption within Georgia’s ruling party and stressed that sanctions would be imposed on those undermining Georgian sovereignty.
Congressman Hudson noted that “the MEGOBARI Act reinforces our nation’s support for the Georgian people and democratic efforts throughout the Caucasus.” He sees it as a necessary measure against Russian influence in the region.
Congressman Veasey expressed pride in supporting this bill: “I am proud to vote for our bill, the MEGOBARI Act…a lifeline to ensure our allies in Georgia are not crushed by the Ivanishvili regime.”
The MEGOBARI Act mandates a comprehensive review of sanctions against officials from Georgia’s ruling party involved in corruption or actions undermining sovereignty. It also includes mechanisms to deepen U.S.-Georgia relations once democracy is restored and requires reports on foreign intelligence activities in Georgia.
This initiative is seen as a key U.S. response to attempts by certain regimes to influence Georgia negatively. The act has been negotiated across party lines in both chambers of Congress and is expected to proceed swiftly through legislative processes.
International observers have criticized recent elections in Georgia as flawed, resulting in protests led by Salome Zourabichvili calling for fair elections. The MEGOBARI Act aims to reinforce U.S. support for these democratic aspirations.
