In 2024, the Georgian government introduced legislation requiring organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from foreign sources to register as “agents of foreign influence.” This law sparked widespread concern both within the country and internationally, with critics arguing it would negatively impact civil society and restrict freedom of expression. The GPBA, despite internal disagreement at the Board, decided to register under this law without consulting its members. This decision led to a significant divide within the organization, prompting up to 20 out of 50 member companies to leave and ultimately form a new association — the GBA.
A Different Approach: GBA’s Values and Structure The Georgian Book Association was founded to create an open, member-driven organization focused on: Transparency in governance and communication Collective decision-making with member input Protection of freedom of expression in publishing Independence from political influence Today, the GBA represents around 70% of Georgia’s book market, bringing together many of the country’s leading publishers and booksellers.
Its statute strictly prohibits political affiliations within its leadership and limits membership to entities without state ownership, with the exception of university presses. These rules help ensure that the organization remains independent and focused on professional development. Industry Engagement and Civil Society Involvement GBA members have been consistently involved in activities supporting freedom of expression and open public dialogue. Even before the GBA’s official formation, its future members took a strong stance during the 2024 Tbilisi International Book Fair. At a time when the GPBA had not yet spoken out against the foreign agent law, these publishers organized events highlighting their opposition. Actors and cultural figures also participated in these events, many of whom remain actively involved in public discourse.
In the months that followed, GBA members continued their engagement by: Participating in peaceful demonstrations Organizing public readings and discussions Donating books and materials to activists and protestors Collaborating with independent media to share perspectives Offering support to detained writers and journalists Using publishing and social media platforms to promote open dialogue
Books as Tools for Dialogue Beyond civic engagement, GBA members contribute through their publishing work. Many have produced books that address difficult or sensitive topics, helping expand public discussion and encourage critical thinking. Examples include: Reissues of previously banned or censored books Nonfiction and documentary works addressing complex societal issues Translations and original works that explore themes of human rights and justice
Independent Cultural Participation To maintain neutrality and independence, GBA members no longer participate in state-run cultural initiatives. Instead, they organize or join independent events, including: Representing Georgia at international book fairs such as Frankfurt 2025 Withdrawing from the government-sponsored Litera Prize and establishing the independent Free Litera Award in collaboration with PEN Center Georgia
These efforts reflect GBA’s aim to create space for cultural work free from political pressure.
Looking Ahead: A Professional and Independent Platform Although newly formed, the GBA builds on the long-standing experience and principles of its members. While the organization itself is new, its members have been active participants in Georgia’s publishing landscape and have consistently advocated for independence and professionalism.
Through international engagement, public events, and its publishing work, the GBA continues to support an open, diverse, and forward-looking literary culture in Georgia.
Members of the GBA: Aloni publishing Artanuji Publishing Biblusi
Bookmark Bookshop Santa Esperanza Indigo Publishing Intelekti Bookstore/Grandpa Shaqro Intelekti Publishing
Kalmosani Publishing Karchkhadze Publishing Meduza Publishing Mikiri Palitra L Publishing Pegasus Publishers Polynomial Books Rusty Comics SABA SOVLAB Sulakauri Publishing Zebra Group Ziari