On Tuesday night, massive protests erupted in Tbilisi, Georgia, against the Foreign Agents Law. Nearly 63 people were arrested and six police officers were injured during the six-hour demonstration. Thousands of people gathered again in front of Parliament on Wednesday to protest the law’s approval in the second reading. Security forces used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the demonstration, which had around 40,000 participants.
According to Interior Minister Alexandr Darajvelidze, protest participants threw heavy objects at officers during Tuesday night’s demonstrations. However, human rights organizations accused the police of using illegitimate and disproportionate force. Protesters tried to block the legislative headquarters and clashes with riot forces led to the use of tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Among the injured was Leván Jabeishveli, leader of the United National Movement opposition party. Jabeishveli had facial injuries and missing teeth after being beaten by riot police and required medical attention. The protests were in response to the Foreign Agents Law, which is being pushed forward by the Georgian Dream party government. Critics argue that the law is similar to Russian regulations used to suppress dissent.
The European Union has called on Georgia to respect the right of peaceful assembly and not to use force against demonstrators. EU officials expressed disappointment with the Georgian government’s actions, which go against the spirit of community values. Government supporters rallied in a demonstration in support of official policy where Bidzina Ivanishvili criticized Europe and America for causing problems in their country.
However, despite government support many people in Georgia are wary of Russian influence due to Russia’s control over two separatist regions in their country.
The protests highlight a divide in Georgian society over the Foreign Agents Law and government actions towards gender equality and LGBTI community.
The Georgian Dream party has faced backlash for its measures against gender equality and LGBTI community despite government support many people are wary of Russian influence due to Russia’s control over two separatist regions in their country.
In conclusion, Tuesday night’s protests against foreign agents law resulted in mass arrests and injuries among protesters while human rights organizations accused security forces of using excessive force during dispersal efforts. The European Union called on Georgia
