Tbilisi Protests Intensify as “Foreign Agents” Bill Passes in Georgia’s Parliament

Thousands of Georgians have taken to the streets in protest against a highly controversial “foreign agents” bill passed by parliament, which critics claim mirrors Russia’s similar legislation and could jeopardize Georgia’s bid to join the European Union.

Background on the Controversial Law

The law, approved with 84 votes in favor and 30 against, requires organizations receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as “agents of foreign influence” or face crippling fines. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze succeeded in pushing the legislation through parliament despite widespread opposition.

International Reaction

• President Salome Zourabichvili has vowed to veto the law, but her power is limited as the Georgian parliament can easily override her decision with a simple majority.
• The EU has expressed deep concern over the bill’s passage, warning it could negatively impact Georgia’s path to membership in the bloc.

Protests in Tbilisi

Protesters in Tbilisi have been demonstrating nightly for a month against what they call “the Russian law,” and on Sunday evening, around 50,000 people took to the streets to express their opposition. Counter-protests have also been held, with Georgian Dream party founder Bidzina Ivanishvili delivering a rare speech to a crowd of supporters in Tbilisi.

Concerns Over Democratic Backsliding

The law has sparked concerns over democratic backsliding in Georgia and whether the country’s future lies with Europe or Russia. Many Georgians feel deep hostility towards the Kremlin, which invaded Georgia in 2008 and occupies around 20% of its internationally recognized territory.

International Pressure Mounts

• Washington has also expressed alarm over the bill’s passage, with White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan writing that it runs counter to democratic values.
• The EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has reiterated Brussels’ unease over the law, urging Georgia to stay on the road to Europe and refrain from adopting legislation that could compromise its EU path.

Impact on Freedom of Expression

The controversy surrounding the bill is just the latest in a long-standing dispute between Georgia’s government and civil society over issues of transparency and national sovereignty. The EU has warned that the law’s passage could limit freedom of expression and unfairly stigmatize organizations that deliver benefits to Georgian citizens.

Looking Ahead

As the country navigates this critical juncture, Georgians are left wondering whether their government will prioritize democratic values or cater to Russian influence. With the EU on high alert over the situation, only time will tell if Georgia can find a way to reconcile its ambitions with its democratic principles.