Georgia’s parliament has approved a contentious "foreign agents" bill, despite significant opposition within the country and warnings from the European Union that such a move could harm Georgia's prospects of joining the EU.
Under the new law, organizations that receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad will be required to register as "agents of foreign influence" or face substantial fines. Critics argue that this legislation closely resembles laws in Russia, which the Kremlin has used to suppress opposition and civil society.
The bill was passed with 84 lawmakers voting in favor and 30 against. Following the vote, riot police confronted protesters in Tbilisi, dispersing crowds after some individuals breached barriers and entered the parliament grounds.
Many Georgians fear that this bill will be used similarly to the Russian laws in their country. The parliament now has 10 days to send the bill to President Salome Zourabichvili, who has vowed to veto it. However, parliament can override her veto with a simple majority, if necessary.
This bill has become a focal point in Georgia's cultural and political landscape, as the country navigates its position between Russia and Europe. Despite strong public support in Georgia to join the EU, the country remains influenced by Moscow's geopolitical interests.
Georgia applied for EU membership in 2022 and was granted candidate status in December, seen as a move to realign the country away from Russia. However, EU leaders have warned that the passage of the foreign agents bill could jeopardize Georgia's EU accession.
The United States has also expressed concerns about the bill and the perceived democratic regression in Georgia. Georgian Dream, the ruling party behind the legislation, argues that it will enhance transparency and national sovereignty. However, critics accuse the party of having pro-Russian leanings, given its founder's background in the Soviet Union.
The bill's progress has sparked intense reactions, including scuffles and protests, both in parliament and on the streets. Nightly demonstrations have been ongoing in Tbilisi for about a month, with thousands protesting what they see as a repressive law reminiscent of those in Russia.
Georgian President Zourabichvili has pledged to veto the bill, but parliament can overturn her decision. Protesters like Levan Khabeishvili believe the law threatens Georgia's relationship with the West and is a tool for Moscow to exert influence in the region.
The Kremlin has dismissed criticism of the law as an attempt to stir up anti-Russian sentiment. Russian President Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, described the criticism as interference in Georgia's internal affairs.
Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s office declined to comment on the matter when approached by CNN.