As tensions rise in the Georgian capital Tbilisi, American lawyer Ted Jonas found himself in the midst of a violent altercation with riot police during a protest against the government’s proposed foreign influence bill. Mr. Jonas recounted being “dropped on the ground and kept kicking me and punching me” by a group of officers. The draft legislation, if passed, will require organizations that receive significant funding from abroad to register as pursuing the “interests of a foreign power.”
The ‘foreign influence’ bill has sparked a wave of criticism, with many comparing it to Russia’s foreign agent law, citing concerns of stifled debate and potential authoritarian implications for media groups and NGOs. Amid chants of “Russians” and “traitors,” riot police descended on protesters, leading to violent clashes that left many injured, including Mr. Jonas who reported being punched and kicked numerous times.
Despite the heavy-handed police response, thousands of protesters stood their ground in opposition to the bill, reflecting the deep-seated concerns within civil society groups about Georgia’s future trajectory. Many believe that the proposed law could jeopardize the country’s aspirations to join the EU and draw it closer into Russia’s sphere of influence, complicating the delicate balancing act of Georgia’s ruling party, Georgian Dream.
The recent mass protests were triggered by a speech from Georgian Dream founder Bidzina Ivanishvili, who seemingly blamed Western powers for obstructing Georgia’s path to NATO and EU membership. His accusations of foreign interference and non-transparent funding of NGOs have further fueled tensions in the country.
As the ‘foreign influence’ bill progresses through parliament, with a second reading approved amidst continued demonstrations, the situation in Georgia remains highly volatile. President Salome Zourabichvili has voiced concerns over the bill’s impact on critical voices, setting the stage for a potential showdown between the executive and legislative branches.
With brawls erupting in parliament and the specter of a looming election in October, Georgia stands at a pivotal moment in its political and social landscape. The outcome of this legislative battle will not only determine the future of civil liberties and democratic norms in the country but also have broader implications for its international relations.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s call for Georgia to remain on the path to Europe underscores the high stakes involved in this political standoff. As the country grapples with internal divisions and external pressures, the coming weeks are sure to test its resilience and commitment to democratic values.
Additional reporting by Reuters