In Georgia, Riot Police Disperse Protesters Opposing “Foreign Agent” Bill
Tensions escalated in Tbilisi as riot police utilized tear gas and water cannons to scatter crowds protesting against a controversial bill perceived by the opposition as a threat to media freedoms.
Outside the parliament building, demonstrators hurled eggs and bottles at police forces. While the crowds initially retreated, clashes persisted into the night along Rustaveli Avenue. Reports indicate several individuals sustained injuries and were apprehended during the unrest.
The bill, endorsed by MPs on April 17, proposes stringent measures for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and independent media outlets. Those receiving over 20% of their funding from foreign sources would be required to register as entities “aligned with foreign interests” and subjected to monitoring by Georgia’s justice ministry. Failure to comply could result in hefty fines reaching 25,000 Georgian lari ($9,400; £7,500).
The legislation’s passage prompted widespread street protests, with Tuesday’s demonstrations resulting in further injuries, including the severe beating of Levan Khabeishvili, chairman of the main opposition party United National Movement.
Eyewitnesses reported instances of police aggression towards protesters, though official statements from the Georgian authorities regarding these claims are currently unavailable.
Critics argue that the bill mirrors authoritarian measures seen in Russia, with concerns raised over its potential to stifle dissent ahead of impending parliamentary elections. The proposed law has drawn parallels to Russia’s 2012 legislation, notorious for marginalizing opposition voices.
Moreover, opponents fear the bill may hinder Georgia’s aspirations for EU membership, a sentiment echoed by European leaders who have condemned the legislation as incompatible with European values.
Despite mounting criticism, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s government remains steadfast, asserting that the bill aims to enhance transparency and rebuffing allegations of Russian influence.
In response to the protests, the ruling Georgian Dream party organized its own rally, during which party founder Bidzina Ivanishvili criticized Western interference in Georgian affairs.