Thousands of protesters in Georgia took to the streets of Tbilisi to rally against a controversial “foreign influence” bill that has sparked outrage and comparisons to Russian laws silencing dissent. The bill, backed by the Georgian government, has reignited massive protests in the Black Sea Caucasus country, with demonstrators expressing their fears of the country moving towards a Russian-style dictatorship.
Despite pouring rain, protesters gathered at Tbilisi’s central Europe Square, waving Georgian and EU flags while chanting slogans against the bill. One protester, Mariam Meunrgia, emphasized the importance of protecting Georgia’s European future and freedom, expressing concerns about the country’s direction.
The bill, which passed its second reading in parliament, would require independent NGOs and media organizations receiving more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad to register as an “organization pursuing the interests of a foreign power.” Critics argue that this would stifle freedom of speech and civil society in the country.
Georgian Dream, the ruling party, has defended the bill as a means to increase transparency over foreign funding. However, protesters remain steadfast in their opposition, vowing to continue their demonstrations and resist what they see as a move towards Russian influence.
The protests come ahead of parliamentary elections in October, seen as a crucial test of democracy in Georgia. The international community, including the European Union, the United States, and the United Nations, have expressed concerns about the legislation and the government’s crackdown on protesters. As tensions escalate, the future of Georgia’s democratic aspirations hangs in the balance.