Tensions escalate in Georgia during heated debate over 'foreign agents' law
Tensions reached a boiling point in Georgia as clashes intensified between demonstrators and law enforcement during a contentious parliamentary discussion on the 'foreign agents' legislation. Critics argue that the proposed law is undemocratic and influenced by Russian policies, fueling the ongoing unrest.
Violent clashes broke out in Tbilisi, Georgia's capital, on Tuesday between protesters and police. The unrest occurred as the country's parliament discussed a controversial "foreign agents" bill, which has been condemned by both Western and domestic critics as authoritarian and Russian-influenced.
Critics have labeled the bill as "the Russian law" because of its similarities to legislation used in Russia to stifle opposition. The ruling Georgian Dream party has reintroduced the bill for debate, after it was shelved last year following widespread protests.
Western countries, such as the US and Britain, have criticized a new legislation in Georgia. This law would make organizations that receive funds from abroad register as foreign agents or be fined. Rights groups view this as an effort to limit basic freedoms in the country.
Georgia's President Salome Zourabichvili shared on social media that there was a second night of large protests in Tbilisi against the Russian Law.
Zourabichvili stated that the authorities' determination to pass the law despite the opposition of the people and protests from partners is seen as a deliberate provocation, following a Russian tactic of destabilization. She has promised to revoke the law if it is presented to her for approval.
The Georgian Dream party, advocating for the law, holds the majority in parliament, giving them the power to override a potential veto from the president.
Videos circulating on activist Telegram channels and news agencies captured riot police attempting to disperse protesters near the parliament. The footage depicted police grabbing demonstrators and using what seemed to be water cannons.
REUTERS / GOVERNMENT OF GEORGIA
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One employee of the Ministry of Internal Affairs sustained injuries during Tuesday's clashes, according to a statement released by the ministry.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs issued a warning stating that if protesters persist in their illegal activities, they will face special measures as outlined by law. The ministry emphasized that every illegal action will be met with a corresponding legal response from the police.
Dramatic scenes took place in the parliament of the ex-Soviet country recently. Georgian television captured the moment when the leader of the Georgian Dream party, Mamuka Mdinaradze, was punched in the face by opposition lawmaker Aleko Elisashvili. This led to a larger brawl involving several lawmakers.
The proposed "foreign agents" law has faced criticism from Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International. They argue that if this law is passed, it will bring about more burdensome reporting requirements, inspections, and legal consequences, including potential imprisonment for up to five years for any violations.
Human Rights Watch has warned that the legislation is not in line with international human rights law and standards that safeguard the rights to freedom of expression and association.
This is an ongoing story and will be kept updated.
