The ongoing political turmoil in Georgia reached a boiling point as the parliament speaker, Shalva Papuashvili, announced plans to override President Salome Zourabichvili’s veto on a controversial bill that requires media and nonprofit organizations to register as “pursuing the interests of a foreign power” if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad. The legislation has been heavily criticized by opposition groups and activists, who view it as reminiscent of Russian laws used to suppress independent media and civil society. Despite the president’s veto, the ruling party, Georgian Dream, which holds a majority in parliament, is expected to push through the bill in the coming weeks.
The bill has sparked renewed protests across Georgia, with demonstrators clashing with police forces who have resorted to using tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds. Last year, a similar bill was withdrawn after widespread protests, but this latest development indicates the government’s determination to enforce the controversial legislation. European Union officials, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, have expressed deep regret over the decision to deviate from European values and the aspirations of the Georgian people. The EU has been a key partner for Georgia in its efforts to align with European standards and democratic principles.
Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze defended the bill by stating that over 60% of the population supports it, although no evidence was provided to support this claim. He accused President Zourabichvili of blocking any possibility for dialogue and compromise by vetoing the legislation. The prime minister emphasized the need for the majority’s common sense to prevail in determining the country’s direction. The government argues that the law is necessary to prevent foreign interference in Georgia’s politics and to safeguard national security. Critics, however, see it as a tool to suppress dissent and silence critical voices in the country.
The escalating political crisis in Georgia has raised concerns about the country’s democratic future and its aspirations to join the European Union. The government’s decision to push through the controversial bill despite widespread opposition has further strained relations with the EU and other international partners. Critics fear that the legislation could lead to a crackdown on independent media and civil society organizations, undermining the country’s democratic credentials. The ongoing protests and clashes between demonstrators and security forces reflect a growing divide between the government and the people, with the outcome of this political standoff likely to have far-reaching consequences for Georgia’s future.
The situation in Georgia is also being closely monitored by international organizations and human rights groups, who have expressed solidarity with the protesters and called for respect for democratic principles and freedoms. The government’s response to the protests and its decision to prioritize the bill over dialogue and compromise have sparked condemnation from the international community. As Georgia navigates this turbulent period in its political history, the outcome of the parliament’s decision to override the presidential veto will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers. The future of Georgia’s democracy and its relations with the European Union hang in the balance as the political crisis continues to unfold.
