Critics in Georgia are protesting against a controversial “Russian law” that requires media and non-commercial organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as being under foreign influence. Critics argue that this legislation, similar to laws in Russia, undermines democracy and jeopardizes the country’s chances of joining the European Union. Thousands of people have taken to the streets in Tbilisi to voice their opposition to the bill, with clashes between demonstrators and police resulting in arrests and injuries, including that of prominent opposition politician Levan Khabeishvili. Protesters fear a return to Soviet-era restrictions and are calling for rejection of the law in favor of European values.
Despite the widespread public outcry, the ruling Georgian Dream party, which introduced the bill, maintains that transparency is essential for protecting national sovereignty. Supporters of the legislation believe it is necessary in order to strengthen Georgia’s economy, maintain peace, and eventually become a part of the European Union by 2030. The government’s dedication to overcoming challenges and achieving EU membership has been voiced by Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of Georgian Dream. However, the bill faces strong opposition not only from the public but also from President Salome Zourabichvili, who has vowed to veto the law if passed by parliament. The ruling party could potentially override the veto with enough support in parliament.
Georgia has been a candidate country for EU membership since 2023, with a majority of its citizens supporting the idea of joining the bloc. The controversy surrounding the “Russian law” highlights a divide within the country between those advocating for closer ties with Europe and those concerned about the potential consequences of the legislation. The ongoing protests in Georgia echo earlier demonstrations when a similar bill was introduced and ultimately abandoned in 2023, indicating a persistent resistance to measures perceived as infringing on democratic values. The high levels of public engagement in opposing the bill suggest a strong commitment among Georgians to uphold democratic principles and resist potential Russian influence in their country.
The use of force against demonstrators in Tbilisi underscores the intensity of the opposition to the “Russian law” and the determination of protesters to defend their rights and values. The clashes between police and protesters have drawn attention to the broader implications of the legislation, both domestically and in terms of Georgia’s aspirations for EU integration. The standoff between the government and the public over the controversial bill reflects a broader debate within Georgian society about the country’s future direction, with issues of sovereignty, democracy, and European integration at the center of the discussion. The outcome of the legislative process surrounding the “Russian law” will likely have far-reaching implications for Georgia’s democratic development and its relationship with European institutions in the years to come.
