Escalating Protests in Georgia Against Controversial Bill
Hundreds of young Georgians gathered outside the country’s parliament in Tbilisi after a night-long demonstration against a contentious “foreign influence” law. The bill, criticized for mirroring repressive Russian legislation, has sparked widespread unrest in the ex-Soviet republic.
Arrests Made Amid Unrest
The Georgian Interior Ministry reported the arrest of 20 individuals, including two U.S. nationals and a Russian citizen, as protests intensified. The ruling Georgian Dream party, despite facing public backlash last year, is determined to push the bill through, arguing it will enhance transparency.
EU Calls for Investigation
The European Union, which granted Georgia candidate status, urged authorities to probe reports of violence. EU spokesperson Peter Stano condemned acts of intimidation against protesters, civil society activists, and journalists, emphasizing the importance of European integration for Georgia.
Protesters’ Determination
University students leading the protests have declared a strike and vowed to continue demonstrating. Many remain draped in EU and Georgian flags, expressing concerns that the bill may align Georgia more closely with authoritarian regimes.
Georgian Dream Faces Criticism
Opponents of the bill accuse the ruling party of deviating from commitments to European integration and aligning Georgia with Russia’s authoritarian practices. The billionaire backer of the Georgian Dream party has accused non-governmental organizations of attempting to foment revolution.
Uncertain Future
As tensions escalate, protesters remain steadfast in their resolve, calling for Georgia to remain aligned with European values and expressing fears of a potential descent into authoritarianism. The fate of the bill and its implications for Georgia’s democratic future hang in the balance.