Thousands of demonstrators in Georgia have taken to the streets for the third consecutive night, rallying against a proposed bill that critics argue mirrors authoritarian laws in Russia and threatens freedom of expression.
The contentious legislation would compel non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and media outlets receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as entities “serving the interests of a foreign power.” The bill’s passage is viewed as a pivotal moment in determining whether Georgia will align more closely with Western democracies or with Russia.
European countries, the United States, and the United Kingdom have voiced strong opposition to the bill, warning of its potential impact on Georgia’s path toward European Union membership.
During the protest in the capital city of Tbilisi, an estimated 10,000 demonstrators, many waving Georgian and European flags, voiced their opposition to what they termed the “Russian law.” Similar protests successfully halted a comparable bill last year.
Despite opposition boycotts and parliamentary disruption, the bill advanced through its first reading, prompting criticism from Western officials and civil society groups. The European Union expressed deep concern, stating that the legislation would impede the operation of civil society and media organizations, limit freedom of expression, and unfairly target entities beneficial to Georgian citizens.
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze defended the bill, dismissing Western objections and vowing to proceed despite international pressure. President Salome Zourabichvili has threatened to veto the law if passed, but parliament retains the authority to override her decision.
Amidst the political turmoil, activists and opposition figures condemned the bill’s proponents as “traitors” and warned of the legislation’s potential to steer Georgia toward Russia’s sphere of influence, hindering its European aspirations.
While surveys indicate strong public support for EU membership, Brussels has emphasized the need for political and judicial reforms in Georgia. The government’s perceived closeness to Russia, including the restoration of direct flights and the absence of sanctions, has drawn criticism and fueled suspicion among Georgian citizens, particularly in light of Russia’s role in supporting breakaway regions such as Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
The outcome of the bill and its implications for Georgia’s future trajectory remain uncertain as the country grapples with internal divisions and external pressure from Western allies and regional powers.
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