Thousands Protest in Georgia Against Controversial 'Foreign Agents' Law

Massive protests have erupted in Georgia as thousands take to the streets to demonstrate against a controversial draft law that critics say resembles Russian legislation used to suppress opposition. The proposed "foreign agents" law would require organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as foreign agents or face hefty fines.

The protests, which have been ongoing for three consecutive days in the capital Tbilisi, have seen incidents of violence and detentions. Protesters are demanding that the ruling Georgian Dream party revoke the bill, arguing that it threatens democratic values and Georgia's European aspirations. Despite the public outcry, the bill passed its first reading in parliament on Tuesday.

Why this matters: The controversial law has raised concerns about Georgia's commitment to European integration and democratic development. The U.S. and EU have strongly criticized the proposed legislation, warning that it could limit freedom of expression and undermine civil society in Georgia.

The Georgian government has defended the measures, claiming they are compatible with the country's EU integration efforts. However, a recent nationwide poll showed that 79% of Georgians support their country's EU membership ambitions. The EU has expressed concerns that the law could hinder Georgia's EU integration efforts, while the U.S. Department of State has criticized the bill as "Kremlin-inspired".

Government Trust Crisis: The protests have highlighted the growing distrust toward the government and its perceived alignment with Moscow, as Georgia pursues its path toward European integration. The tensions escalated when a brawl involving an opposition leader broke out in parliament, and he is now under investigation for assault.

Protest Clashes: The Interior Ministry has urged protesters to refrain from illegal actions, as clashes have persisted since the start of the protests on Monday, resulting in detentions and injuries. The police have been accused of obstructing the work of journalists, including preventing a media director from filming the protests.

Parliamentary Bill Passage: Despite a vote boycott by the opposition, the bill passed its first reading in parliament, with 83 out of 150 deputies backing it. The bill still needs to go through two more readings before becoming law, and Georgia's president, Salome Zourabichvili, has vowed to veto it. However, parliament can override her veto.

Georgia's Media Law: The Netherlands' Foreign Minister has warned that the law could impede the work of civil society and media in Georgia and compromise the country's EU path. "By adopting this law, Georgia would seriously undermine its European perspective," said EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell.

Key Takeaways

• Massive protests in Georgia against "foreign agents" law that critics say resembles Russian legislation.
• Law would require organizations with >20% foreign funding to register as foreign agents.
• Bill passed first reading despite public outcry; U.S. and EU criticize it as threat to democracy.
• Protests highlight distrust toward government and perceived alignment with Moscow, impacting EU integration.
• Georgia's president vows to veto the law, but parliament can override the veto.