On March 2, protesters clashed with the police in front of and inside the Georgian Parliament. At that time, the controversial “foreign agents” law was being discussed in the parliament. Critics say that this law will harm the freedom of the press and lead the country to authoritarianism.
The police detained at least 4 protesters during demonstrations in Tbilisi. Some of the demonstrators gathered in the corridors in front of the rooms where the deputies were debating, whistled and raised placards.
Some chanted “No to Russian law!”, “No to additional traitors!” slogans they sounded.
Russian example
Under the legislation, backed by the ruling Georgian Dream party, institutions that receive more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad must register as “foreign agents” or face hefty fines.
Critics compare this project to a similar law in Russia. With that law, Russia has restricted the work of civil society groups, NGOs and media institutions.
Last month, more than 60 media organizations and civil society groups said that they will not comply with the legislation if it is adopted they said.
Although President Salome Zurabishvili has said she will veto the bill, parliament can override her veto.
The United States and the European Union have criticized the law.
Freedom radio