On Monday, thousands of people in Georgia protested against a controversial law on foreign influence being considered by the government. The proposed bill would require media outlets, non-profits, and other organizations to register if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad, similar to legislation used by Russia to crack down on independent media and activists critical of the Kremlin. Two American citizens and one Russian national were among those detained at the protest, which turned violent as masked police clashed with demonstrators outside Georgia’s Parliament.
Georgia’s Special Investigation Service has launched an investigation into the alleged use of “excessive force” by law enforcement officers against protesters. The opposition lawmakers in Georgia have denounced the bill, warning that it could jeopardize the country’s chances of joining the European Union. The White House national security advisor also expressed deep concern over the democratic backsliding in Georgia, urging Parliamentarians to support the Georgian people’s EuroAtlantic aspirations instead of passing a Kremlin-style foreign agents’ law that goes against democratic values.
Despite some of the largest protests seen in Georgia since declaring independence from the Soviet Union over 30 years ago, the ruling government has insisted it will push ahead with the bill. Protesters clashed with riot police over the proposed legislation, with some waving Georgian and European Union flags while others held signs saying “Take your hands off my future.” The security officers have since pulled out of the main square in Tbilisi, where the demonstrations took place.
The situation in Georgia highlights growing concerns about the erosion of democratic values and increasing government control over civil society and media. Many fear that the proposed foreign influence bill could further restrict freedom of expression and curb independent voices critical of the government. As protesters continue to push back against the legislation, the international community is closely watching how Georgia’s Parliament will vote on the bill, scheduled for Tuesday.
The violent clashes between protesters and police outside Georgia’s Parliament underscore the deep divisions and tensions within the country over the controversial bill. The use of force by law enforcement has sparked outrage and calls for accountability, prompting the Special Investigation Service to launch an investigation into the matter. The outcome of the final vote on the bill will have significant ramifications for Georgia’s democratic future and its relationships with the European Union and other international partners.
The protests in Georgia serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing countries striving to uphold democratic principles and safeguard civil liberties against authoritarian tendencies. The international community’s response to the situation will be crucial in determining the trajectory of Georgia’s democracy and its relationships with key partners. As the country grapples with internal turmoil and external pressures, the voices of protesters calling for accountability, transparency, and respect for democratic values will continue to echo on the streets of Tbilisi and beyond.
