H.R.36 - Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia’s Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence Act; MEGOBARI Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.36, the MEGOBARI Act, addresses concerns about the influence of the Chinese Communist Party, the Iranian Regime, and the Russian Federation in Georgia. It outlines a policy of supporting Georgia's Euro-Atlantic aspirations while holding the Georgian government accountable for democratic backsliding. The Act includes provisions for sanctions, reports on Russian intelligence activities, and a strategy for bilateral relations with Georgia.
Expected Effects
This Act could lead to a reevaluation of the US relationship with Georgia, potentially impacting foreign assistance and security cooperation. Sanctions may be imposed on individuals undermining Georgia's peace, security, or Euro-Atlantic integration. The Act aims to encourage Georgia to align with European Union and NATO aspirations.
Potential Benefits
- Supports democracy and Euro-Atlantic integration in Georgia.
- Counters malign influence from Russia, China, and Iran.
- Provides tools to address corruption and human rights abuses in Georgia.
- Enhances US national security interests by promoting regional stability.
- Supports the Georgian people's aspirations for a democratic future.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential strain on US-Georgia relations if sanctions are imposed.
- Risk of unintended consequences from sanctions, harming the Georgian population.
- May be perceived as interference in Georgia's internal affairs.
- Could escalate tensions with Russia, China, and Iran.
- Requires significant resources for monitoring and enforcement.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the US Constitution's broad goals of promoting liberty and providing for the common defense. While the Constitution does not explicitly address foreign policy in this level of detail, Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and to declare war, implying authority over foreign relations. The act does not infringe on any specific constitutional rights of American citizens.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).