Georgia Faces Autocracy Risks as Ivanishvili Pushes Nation Closer to Russia

Georgia is at a critical juncture as mass protests erupt over a controversial foreign agent law that critics argue will stifle civil society and hinder the country's path to EU integration. The law, passed by parliament and set to be enacted despite President Salome Zurabishvili's veto, has drawn widespread condemnation from the United States, the European Union, and international rights organizations.

The legislation, modeled after a similar Russian law, requires media outlets, NGOs, and other nonprofits to register as representing foreign interests if more than 20% of their funding comes from abroad. This move has sparked fears that Georgia is slipping into autocracy under the influence of Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of the ruling Georgian Dream party.

Why this matters: Georgia's potential slide into autocracy has significant implications for global democracy and security. If the country succumbs to authoritarian rule, it could have far-reaching consequences for regional stability and the balance of power between Russia and the West.

Massive protests have engulfed the capital, Tbilisi, with thousands of demonstrators taking to the streets to voice their opposition. On May 15, riot police violently arrested at least 10 people, with reports of injuries and beatings. President Zurabishvili has warned that the country's survival as a state is at stake, stating, 'The issue of Georgia's survival is at stake today.'

International reactions have been swift and critical. A NATO spokesperson described the legislation as a 'step in the wrong direction' that moves Georgia further away from European and Euro-Atlantic integration. The US Assistant Secretary of State James O'Brien warned that Washington's relationship with Georgia would be at risk and that US aid would come under review if the bill becomes law.

The foreign agent law is not the only controversial measure being pushed by the Georgian Dream party. Another concerning development is the fast-tracked adoption of an 'offshore law', which allows individuals and companies registered in offshore zones to move their assets to Georgia with a one-time exemption from taxes and import fees until January 1, 2028. Critics argue that this law could benefit individuals like Ivanishvili, who owns numerous companies in offshore zones.

Protests have continued to gain momentum, with demonstrators waving Georgian, EU, and Ukrainian flags, demanding that the bill be withdrawn. Protester Irakli Beradze stated, 'I'm Georgian and therefore I'm European. We want freedom, that's all.' The ruling party, however, remains steadfast in its support for the legislation, arguing that it is necessary for national security and transparency.

Bidzina Ivanishvili, an unelected billionaire oligarch, exercises significant control over the Georgian state. Despite rarely making public appearances, his influence is felt through his appointments of close associates to key government positions, ensuring his near-absolute power without formal accountability. Ivanishvili's alignment with Russia and suppression of democratic institutions have led many to fear that Georgia is drifting away from its pro-Western aspirations.

The situation in Georgia highlights the broader struggle between democracy and authoritarianism in the region. The country's approach to its 2024 parliamentary elections will have a decisive impact on determining whether Georgia continues its path towards democracy and EU integration or succumbs to autocratic rule.

Georgia's political crisis over the foreign agent law and the offshore law highlights the nation's precarious position between Western integration and Russian influence. The coming months will be crucial in shaping Georgia's future, as citizens and the international community closely watch the developments unfold.

Key Takeaways

• Georgia passes controversial foreign agent law, sparking mass protests and international condemnation.
• Law requires media outlets, NGOs to register as foreign agents if >20% funding comes from abroad.
• Protests erupt in Tbilisi, with riot police arresting demonstrators and reports of injuries.
• International community warns of autocracy, with US and EU threatening to review aid and integration.
• Georgia's future hangs in balance, with 2024 elections crucial in determining democratic or autocratic path.