Georgians Rally Against Russian Law, Advocate for European Alignment on Republic Square

Thousands of protesters gathered in Tbilisi's Republic Square on April 19, 2024 to oppose the Georgian government's plans to introduce a controversial 'foreign agents' law. Critics argue that the legislation would restrict civil society and mirror similar laws used to muzzle dissent in Russia.

The ruling Georgian Dream party announced it would reintroduce the bill with only minor changes to the wording, despite massive protests that erupted in 2022 when a previous version was proposed. Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse those crowds. The opposition accuses the government of being too close to Moscow, and the EU and U.S. have criticized the law, warning it would complicate Georgia's path to EU membership.

A bipartisan group of 14 U.S. senators, led by Jeanne Shaheen and James Risch, sent a letter to Georgia's Prime Minister expressing deep concern over the draft law. The senators warned that if enacted, they would be forced to encourage a change in U.S. policy towards Georgia, including potentially imposing sanctions on individuals, cutting off direct government funding, and expanding visa restrictions. "This is the most severe statement from the U.S. Senate regarding this issue," according to the letter.

The opposition party 'For Georgia', led by former PM Giorgi Gakharia, claims the Georgian Dream government's pursuit of the 'foreign agents' law serves Russia's strategic goal of isolating Georgia from its Western partners and provoking civic confrontation. The senators called on the Georgian government to withdraw the law, which they say threatens U.S.-Georgia relations.

Why this matters: The controversy over the 'foreign agents' law reflects ongoing tensions in Georgia between pro-Western and pro-Russian political forces. The outcome could have significant implications for Georgia's geopolitical orientation and its aspirations for EU membership.

Political Standoff: Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili said she would veto the bill if it is approved by parliament, though lawmakers have enough votes to override her veto. The European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning the law as contrary to Georgia's democratic values and EU aspirations, warning that accession negotiations should not begin as long as the law remains. As Maka Botchorishvili, Chair of the Georgian Parliament's European Integration Committee, noted, "There is 'no reason to panic' about the EU activating the suspension mechanism of its visa liberalization with Georgia." However, the protests reflect the high stakes in the ongoing struggle over Georgia's democratic trajectory and geopolitical future.

Key Takeaways

• Thousands protest in Tbilisi against 'foreign agents' law, critics say it restricts civil society.
• U.S. senators warn law could disrupt U.S.-Georgia relations, including potential sanctions and visa restrictions.
• Opposition claims law serves Russia's goal of isolating Georgia from the West and provoking confrontation.
• Georgian president vows to veto law, but parliament can override; EU warns it threatens Georgia's EU aspirations.
• Controversy reflects ongoing tensions between pro-Western and pro-Russian forces in Georgia's geopolitical future.