A group of Communist MPs has introduced a draft law to regulate foreign agents in Moldova. The proposal, authored by Diana Caraman, Vladimir Voronin, Inga Sibova, Constantin Starish, Nicolai Rusol, and Valeriu Muduc, has faced criticism from civil society and international partners.
Key Provisions of the Draft Law
- Definition of Foreign Agents: Any individual or organization receiving at least 50% of its annual revenue from foreign funding and influencing political, economic, social, or educational life in Moldova.
- Reporting Obligations: Foreign agents must report quarterly on how they use their funds.
- Restrictions:
- Cannot finance political parties, election campaigns, or candidates.
- Cannot engage in lobbying for foreign interests without notifying authorities.
- Cannot participate in educational programs without Ministry of Education approval.
- Sanctions for Violations:
- Fines from 50,000 to 200,000 lei.
- Possible account blocking and confiscation of undeclared funds.
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Criticism and EU Response
- The EU ambassador to Moldova stated that such legislation is incompatible with European values.
- Media and civil society organizations warn that the bill threatens press freedom and resembles authoritarian measures in Russia and Georgia.
- The Independent Journalism Center called the proposed penalties repressive and reminiscent of authoritarian regimes.
Regional Context
- Russia has had a foreign agents law since 2012, using it to suppress opposition and NGOs.
- Georgia recently adopted similar laws, raising concerns about its European integration.