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For the past few weeks, thousands of protesters have gathered every night in front of the Georgian parliament in opposition to the controversial foreign agents law that the ruling Georgian Dream party is attempting to pass. The final vote is set to take place on May 14. The law would require organizations that receive foreign funding to be labeled as foreign agents, stifling civil society and independent media. The protests have evolved into a larger discontent against the government’s direction, particularly as Georgia approaches a pivotal parliamentary election in October.
Georgian Dream’s Honorary Chairman Bidzina Ivanishvili has been increasingly open about his control over the government, signaling a shift towards Russia rather than EU integration. The reintroduction of the foreign agents law and anti-Western rhetoric indicate a departure from Georgia’s European path.
Georgia’s European Path
Georgia’s history with Russian aggression, from the Abkhaz War to the Rose Revolution in 2003, defined its aspiration towards the EU. However, under Georgian Dream, democratic backsliding and closer ties with Russia have threatened this path. Protests against the foreign agents law reflect the Georgian public’s strong opposition to this shift.
Power Behind the Throne
Bidzina Ivanishvili’s influence, rooted in his business ties to Russia, has raised concerns about Georgia’s alignment with Moscow. Despite rhetoric of EU integration, his actions suggest a shift towards Russia’s orbit.
Democratic Backsliding
The crackdown on media, opposition, and EU allies, coupled with the pursuit of Saakashvili’s associates, reflects Georgian Dream’s move away from democratic values. The government’s actions have strained relations with Ukraine and drawn criticism from the West.
Georgian Dream 2.0
The current Georgia faces a critical juncture as protests intensify against the foreign agents law. Georgian Dream’s determination to pass the law despite public outcry and EU warnings signals a stark departure from the party’s original pro-Western stance.
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