Massive protests have erupted in Georgia over a proposed law that many see as a threat to media freedom and the country’s aspirations to join the European Union. The bill in question would require media outlets, non-governmental organizations, and other nonprofits 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 argue that it is necessary to prevent harmful foreign influence over the country’s political scene and to safeguard against destabilization by unidentified foreign actors. However, opponents, including the opposition party, denounce the bill as “the Russian law,” drawing parallels to similar legislation used by Moscow to suppress independent media critical of the Kremlin. They fear that the bill could hinder Georgia’s efforts to join the EU.
Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, who has clashed with the governing party, has vowed to veto the law. However, the ruling party, Georgian Dream, holds a majority that is sufficient to override a presidential veto.
The protests have seen thousands of demonstrators gathering outside the parliament building, clashing with police in an attempt to block the bill’s passage. The situation has drawn concern from the EU, with foreign policy chief Josep Borrell warning that the legislation could negatively impact Georgia’s progress towards EU membership.
The tense situation in Georgia reflects the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region, with longstanding tensions between Russia and Georgia adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing protests and political turmoil.