The Parliament of Georgia adopted in the second reading the high-profile bill “On Transparency of Foreign Influence” – the so-called law on “foreign agents”. This is similar to the current law in Russia.
In Georgia, people protested again after the country’s parliament approved the bill on “foreign agents” in the second reading. Echo of the Caucasus reported this on Thursday, May 2.
The publication indicated that protesters began attacking the parliament, and Georgian law enforcement officers dispersed the protesters using water cannons and tear gas. In addition, the police used rubber bullets against the protesters.
Considering the situation, a “red level” was declared in the parliament building. Anyone inside the building should leave immediately.
It is noted that only people whose presence is absolutely necessary can enter the building, and this list is approved by the head of the parliamentary staff.
The “red security mode” was introduced from 23.00 on May 1.
⭕️ Thousands of people rallied against the law on “foreign agents” near the Georgian Parliament building. drone footage. pic.twitter.com/jiNSKLkpSl
— Echo of the Caucasus (@ekhokavkaza) May 1, 2024
Meanwhile, Georgia’s Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Alexander Darakhvelidze said in a briefing that the protesters were using tear and asphyxiating gas of unknown origin. It is not sold in any open chain stores.
“We will certainly be interested in it and find out how it went into action,” said Darakhvelidze.
It is known that the Georgian Dream political party, which is considered pro-Russian, has reintroduced a bill on “foreign agents” in parliament. The bill provides for the creation of a register of “agents of foreign influence,” which includes non-profit organizations and media outlets whose annual income comes from foreign funding of more than 20%.
Such organizations will be required to file a financial return annually, and those who attempt to evade registration or fail to file a return will face fines. In order to identify “agents of foreign influence” and verify compliance with the requirements of the law, the Ministry of Justice will conduct surveillance.
Georgia may have trouble joining the European Union due to the adoption of a scandalous bill on foreign agents. This was stated by the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell.
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Source: korrespondent
I am David Wyatt, a professional writer and journalist for Buna Times. I specialize in the world section of news coverage, where I bring to light stories and issues that affect us globally. As a graduate of Journalism, I have always had the passion to spread knowledge through writing.