In the city of Tbilisi, Georgia, protesters convened on April 28 to voice their opposition to proposed legislation concerning foreign agents. The rally commenced at Republic Square and eventually made its way to the Parliament building.
The controversial law would require organizations that are recipients of foreign funding to register as “foreign agents,” thus subjecting them to increased governmental attention. Moreover, it gives government agencies expanded oversight over these groups’ internal communications.
The rally saw attendees expressing their opposition to the law and using projections to display messages on the Parliament building that read “No to the Russian law.”
Opposition parties accuse the governing party, Georgian Dream, of being influenced by Russia in their efforts to pass this law.
Georgian Dream is set to rally its support base on April 29 in favor of the legislation, with the next stage of passing the law, the second reading, set for April 30. Although the Georgian parliament approved the bill during the first reading on April 17, it has to undergo two additional readings to become official legislation.
After widespread protests led to the withdrawal of a similar bill in 2023, EU officials have warned that the adoption of such laws could severely affect Georgia’s ambitions to join the European Union.
FAQ about the Legislation and Protests in Tbilisi
What is the “foreign agents” law in Georgia?
The “foreign agents” law is proposed legislation in Georgia that would require organizations receiving significant foreign funding to register as “foreign agents,” making them subject to closer government surveillance and regulatory scrutiny.
Why are people protesting against the law?
Protesters believe that the law is a threat to civil liberties, could hamper the functioning of NGOs and media, and they allege it is influenced by Russian legislation, which has similar rules for foreign-funded organizations.
What are the implications of this law for Georgia’s EU membership prospects?
EU officials have warned that the passing of such a law could pose a significant obstacle to Georgia’s aspirations of joining the European Union, signaling that it does not align with European standards of democracy and human rights.
What are the next steps for the bill to become law?
The bill must be passed in two more parliamentary readings after the initial approval on April 17 before it can officially become law.
Conclusion
The recent rally in Tbilisi signifies the heightened tensions in Georgia over the proposed “foreign agents” legislation. With wide-reaching implications for civil society, media freedom, and the country’s European integration process, the opposition continues to fight against a bill they see as a step backwards for democracy. Committed to opposing the perceived Russian influence on their governance, the Georgian opposition remains steadfast in their protests, reflecting a broader commitment in the former Soviet Union to safeguard democratic values and align with European standards.
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