Violent protests have continued in Georgia after parliament adopted a so-called foreign agents law, which critics say threatens the country's freedom of speech and its bid to join the European Union.
People took to the streets of Tbilisi again on Thursday to demonstrate.
Demonstrators gathered in the city. There is a festival atmosphere that can turn into a festival of violence at any time. In the previous days, the police brutally tried to disperse the demonstrations.
Georgians are not just taking to the streets to express their opposition to the government's pro-Kremlin actions. A pro-EU demonstration was held today at the Georgian National Opera and Ballet Theater, where musicians from the Berlin Philharmonic performed.
Maia Sandu supports protesting Georgians
Moldova's President Mia Sandu expressed support for the demonstrators through the X website. “Moldova stands with the people of Georgia, who demonstrate indomitable courage and deep attachment to democracy and freedom. We support their efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and build a future in line with European values,” he wrote.
Parliament canceled session after protesters vandalized the building
Earlier on Thursday, the Georgian parliament canceled its session, citing damage to the building by protesters.
A parliamentary statement said the session was canceled after the building was damaged during Wednesday's protest and police used water cannons, tear gas and pepper spray against tens of thousands of demonstrators.
On Wednesday, Parliament passed a second reading of the bill imposing the levy on media and non-governmental organizations that receive more than 20 percent. Funding from abroad to register as “adherence to the interests of foreign powers”.
A third and final reading is expected in mid-May. Andhra Agency writes that it is not clear whether the cancellation of Thursday's plenary will affect the implementation of the bill.
The ruling Georgian Dream party withdrew a similar bill last year after mass protests.
Critics of the law say one of its goals is to bring Georgia closer to Russia. Similar measures were adopted by two former Soviet Union countries: Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
US, EU and UN Representatives of They drew attention to, among other things: it contradicts Georgia's European aspirations and the European integration process. In December 2023, Georgia received EU candidate status.
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