Thousands Protest in Tbilisi Against Controversial 'Foreign Influence' Law

On May 26, 2024, thousands of Georgians gathered in Tbilisi to protest against the government's proposed 'foreign influence' law. Critics argue that the law will stifle freedoms and draw the country closer to Russia.

Why this matters: The proposed law has significant implications for Georgia's democratic values and its aspirations to join the European Union. If passed, it could lead to a crackdown on media freedom and non-governmental organizations, potentially jeopardizing the country's EU membership bid.

The proposed law, backed by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, requires media outlets, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other non-profits to register as 'pursuing the interests of a foreign power' if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad. Opponents have dubbed it 'the Russian law' because of its similarity to legislation enacted by Moscow in 2022.

President Salome Zourabichvili vetoed the bill on May 18, 2024, citing concerns that it contradicts the constitution and all European standards. She stated, 'With Russia's presence casting a shadow over us, partnership and rapprochement with Europe are the true path to preserving and strengthening our independence and peace.'

Despite the presidential veto, a Georgian parliament committee rejected it on May 23, setting up a possible override vote by the full legislature. The governing Georgian Dream party, which proposed the law, has a majority sufficient to override the veto.

The protests coincided with Georgia's Independence Day, commemorating the country's declaration of independence from the Russian Empire. The day was marked by tensions over the divisive legislation, which critics view as a threat to Georgia's democratic freedoms and Western aspirations.

The proposed law has drawn strong condemnation from Western countries, including the Venice Commission, the US State Department, and the EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell. The US has threatened Georgia with sanctions if it proceeds with the legislation. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated, 'It remains our hope that Georgia's leaders will reconsider the draft law and take steps to move forward with their nation's democratic and Euro-Atlantic aspirations.'

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has defended the law, claiming it is necessary to maintain national identity and promote transparency. He criticized the opposition, stating, 'It was the unity and reasonable steps of the people and their elected government that gave us the opportunity to maintain peace in the country for the past two years, despite existential threats and multiple betrayals, including the betrayal of the president of Georgia.'

Georgia has been an official candidate for EU membership since last year, and support for membership is very high among Georgians. The proposed law, however, has raised concerns about Georgia's commitment to democratic values and media freedom, potentially jeopardizing its EU aspirations.

The situation continues to unfold, with the international community keeping a close eye, urging the Georgian government to reconsider the legislation and prioritize the nation's democratic and Euro-Atlantic aspirations.

Key Takeaways

• Thousands protest in Tbilisi against Georgia's proposed "foreign influence" law.
• Law requires media outlets and NGOs to register as "foreign agents" if 20%+ of funding is from abroad.
• President vetoes law, citing constitutional and European standard concerns.
• Parliament committee rejects veto, setting up possible override vote.
• Western countries condemn law, threatening sanctions if passed.