The political crisis in Georgia has reached a boiling point as masked men, believed to be members of the security forces, clashed with protesters in the streets of Tbilisi. The cause of the unrest is a proposed law that is set to be approved by Georgia’s parliament, sparking concerns over threats to press and civic freedoms.
The controversial legislation, dubbed the “foreign agents” bill, would require media outlets and non-governmental organizations to register as “pursuing the interests of a foreign power” if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad. Supporters of the bill, including the governing party Georgian Dream, argue that it is necessary to curb harmful foreign influence in the country’s political landscape.
However, opposition groups have denounced the bill as a replica of laws used by Russian President Vladimir Putin to stifle independent media and organizations critical of the Kremlin. Critics fear that the proposed law could further align Georgia with Moscow and hinder its chances of joining the European Union.
The crisis has led to massive protests in Tbilisi, with demonstrators waving Georgian and EU flags and chanting for their country. Police have used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds, leading to clashes and arrests. The situation escalated when opposition leader Levan Khabeishvili was reportedly assaulted by police during the protests, further fueling tensions.
As the country braces for the final reading of the bill in parliament, Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili has vowed to veto the legislation. However, Georgian Dream holds a majority that can override a presidential veto, setting the stage for a potential showdown between the government and its critics. The outcome of this political turmoil will have far-reaching implications for Georgia’s future and its relationship with foreign powers.