Protests in Georgia have escalated as demonstrators continue their fight against a controversial law that could stifle dissent and harm the country’s hopes of joining the European Union.
The proposed legislation, dubbed the “Russia law” by critics, targets civil society organizations and independent media that receive foreign funding. Protesters fear that the government could use the law to clamp down on opponents and limit freedom of speech.
Tensions reached a boiling point as security forces clashed with protesters outside parliament in Tbilisi. The overnight standoff ended with security forces pulling out from the main square on Monday morning, allowing demonstrators to continue their protest.
Georgian Dream lawmakers, the ruling party, rushed the bill through a committee vote in just 67 seconds on Monday morning. The bill is now set for its third and final reading, scheduled for Tuesday.
Thousands of protesters spent the night outside the parliament building, braving the rain and chanting slogans against the government. Police were stationed to allow legislators to enter the building, but photos and footage online showed violent altercations between protesters and law enforcement.
International concern has been raised over the proposed law, with the US expressing deep trouble over the treatment of protesters. The EU has also warned that the bill could jeopardize Georgia’s progress towards joining the bloc.
As the protests continue and the fate of the controversial law hangs in the balance, the people of Georgia are standing firm in their fight for democracy and freedom of expression.