Georgian police have violently cracked down on pro-democracy protesters, sparking concerns about civil rights and a shift towards pro-Russia policies in the EU candidate country. The crackdown occurred during a large protest against a controversial “foreign agents” law that demonstrators believe is influenced by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The violence erupted following a rally by pro-Russian oligarch Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of the ruling party, Georgian Dream. Ivanishvili delivered a speech filled with anti-western rhetoric, claiming that Georgia is controlled by “foreign agents” rather than elected authorities.
The “foreign agents” law has sparked multiple protests, but tensions escalated when riot police used water cannons, stun grenades, tear gas, and pepper spray to disperse the demonstrators. At least 63 people were detained, and there were reports of police beating up protesters.
Despite the unrest, calm has returned to the city center, but the situation remains tense. The law requires NGOs and media outlets receiving over 20% of funding from abroad to register with the ministry of justice or face fines, raising fears of Kremlin-style repression.
Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili condemned the crackdown as unwarranted and disproportionate, while EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell criticized the use of force against peaceful protesters. The EU has expressed concerns about the actions of the ruling party and the potential impact on Georgia’s aspirations to join the bloc.
The crackdown has left many protesters injured, with reports of paramedics treating individuals for tear gas exposure and injuries from rubber bullets. Opposition leader Levan Khabeishvili was hospitalized with severe injuries, vowing to continue the fight against pro-Russian forces.
The situation in Georgia remains volatile, with tensions between pro-democracy protesters and the government escalating. The crackdown has raised alarm bells about the country’s democratic future and its relationship with Russia.