The German Friedrich Naumann Foundation has issued a statement on the termination of its operations in Georgia

The German Friedrich Naumann Foundation has issued a statement regarding the termination of its operations in Georgia. The statement has been published on the official website of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom.

“On September 30, 2026, the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, by decision of its management, terminated its activities in Georgia and closed its office in Tbilisi. This was not an easy step, but it was unavoidable.

The actions of the Georgian government make it impossible for the Friedrich Naumann Foundation to continue operating in the country. This year, our Foundation submitted an application under the new Law on Grants in order to continue funding projects and cooperating with partner organizations. The Georgian authorities required that every component of the program be subject to the priorities of the Georgian government and that all activities receive the relevant approvals. By their very nature, these conditions undermine the freedom of action necessary for a liberal foundation. Nevertheless, our Foundation explored every possible option for continuing its work in Georgia and supporting those working toward the country’s democratic future. However, this application was rejected on July 28, 2026. Consequently, we see no opportunities for continuing work that is consistent with our values and principles.

Our Foundation has been present in Georgia since 2002. During this time, we worked extensively with many partner organizations and liberal figures - for a free society, Georgia’s European future, and closer dialogue between our societies. For a long time, Georgia was a symbol of hope and democratic progress.

We will continue to stand by those Georgians who are working for a free and democratic order in their country. We will make our voices heard abroad and support them in their efforts to work toward a free and democratic future for their nation.

We thank our staff, all our partners, and friends who made our work possible. In recent years, many of them have had to take increasingly greater personal risks when speaking out to defend a free and democratic order in their country. Accordingly, we are deeply concerned about political developments in Georgia,” the statement said.