Update date: 05/01/2024 00:47
The date of publishing:
05/01/2024 00:44
There are violent protests right now in the capital of Georgia, with clashes between demonstrators and the police. Law enforcement used water cannons, tear gas and rubber bullets and detained dozens of people.
Thousands of people took to the streets to protest a Russian-inspired bill. If adopted, organizations that receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad will be registered as “foreign agents”. It is, in fact, the second attempt at adoption, after the proceedings were suspended last year, following protests.
The law is similar to one passed in Russia after the launch of the invasion of Ukraine, which silenced critical voices. Denounced by the opposition and civil society, the law also raised concerns in Brussels, which warned that it could destroy Georgia’s chances of joining the European Union.
Georgian parliamentarians debated the draft law in the second reading on Tuesday. The ruling party hopes to pass it by mid-May.
“They are afraid because they see our decision,” said Natia Gabisonia, a 21-year-old protester, in front of the Parliament on Tuesday evening. “We will not let them pass this Russian law and bury our European future,” she said.
Tags: VIDEO Violent protests Georgias capital Police water cannons tear gas rubber bullets
