Why is NATO & EU information center part of Georgian Government?

Why Is the NATO and EU Information Center Part of the Georgian Government?
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In my recent report from Tbilisi, Georgia, I examined a peculiar arrangement where the NATO and EU Information Center operates as part of the Georgian government's structure. As an independent journalist, I aimed to investigate and understand the connection between this information center and the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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The Scene at Freedom Square
On my visit to Freedom Square in Tbilisi—amid ongoing protests—I discovered the NATO and EU Information Center situated prominently in the area. Upon approaching the center, I sought to learn more about its role, structure, and purpose. However, gaining access proved to be a challenge, as staff directed me to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for permissions to enter or film.
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A Government-Linked Structure
After navigating through the layers of bureaucracy, I visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to seek clarity. Officials there confirmed that the NATO and EU Information Center is indeed part of their governmental structure. This revelation raises significant questions, as Georgia is neither a NATO member nor part of the European Union. Why, then, is an information center dedicated to these international organizations embedded within a Georgian government entity?

The Ministry explained that any filming or interviewing within the center required formal requests and approvals—a process unlikely to be completed during my short stay in the country. Despite the challenges, the information obtained underscores the center's official connection to the Georgian government.

Implications and Questions
This situation is intriguing for several reasons. First, it highlights the extent of Georgia's alignment with Western institutions despite not being a formal member of either NATO or the EU. Second, it raises concerns about the transparency of operations within such centers. Lastly, this arrangement could symbolize Georgia’s aspirations for deeper integration with Western alliances, a point of contention in its domestic and international politics.

Transparency and Accountability
As an independent journalist, I believe transparency is crucial when government resources are tied to foreign or international entities. The NATO and EU Information Center's position within a government structure warrants public discussion. Who oversees its operations, and how does it balance its mandate with Georgian sovereignty? These are critical questions for the Georgian public and its policymakers.

Conclusion
Although my time in Georgia was limited, this investigation shed light on a fascinating aspect of the country’s relationship with NATO and the EU. It also emphasized the importance of independent journalism in uncovering such connections. I hope to revisit this topic in the future and provide further insights into the role of this center in Georgia’s political landscape.

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0:00 - Introduction from Freedom Square
0:06 - Protests and NATO/EU Information Center
1:15 - Attempting to Enter the Information Center
2:00 - Challenges Communicating with Officials
3:45 - Visiting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
5:20 - Confirming the Center’s Government Connection
6:30 - Bureaucratic Hurdles for Filming Inside
8:00 - Reflections on NATO/EU Center’s Role
9:10 - Final Thoughts and Next Steps
9:50 - Support Independent Journalism