Thousands of Georgians convened in the capital city of Tbilisi on Sunday for a charity concert, aimed at raising funds for individuals detained during recent protests against a contentious “foreign influence” law.
Georgia’s parliament passed the controversial legislation on Tuesday, despite facing a presidential veto, prompting backlash from critics who argue that the law mirrors Russian statutes utilized by Moscow to suppress dissent. Both Brussels and Washington have cautioned that the enactment of this law could veer the Black Sea nation off its course towards European Union membership.
The law’s enactment sparked nearly two months of sustained demonstrations, with police resorting to tear gas, water cannons, and arrests to disperse the rallies.
At the heart of Tbilisi’s Republic Square, thousands assembled for an outdoor concert featuring performances by Georgian musicians, with organizers aiming to solicit donations for protesters who have been detained during the ongoing demonstrations.
Many attendees expressed frustration towards the ruling Georgian Dream party, accusing it of steering Georgia away from its Western aspirations and aligning it more closely with Russia.
“They have imprisoned some of us, but we will endure – Georgian Dream’s tenure is nearing its end,” remarked 38-year-old graphic engineer Nico Ladaria. “They have imposed a law reminiscent of Russia’s against the wishes of the Georgian people and despite clear warnings that it jeopardizes Georgia’s EU membership prospects.”
The law mandates that non-governmental organizations and media entities receiving a significant portion of their funding from foreign sources register as “organizations pursuing the interests of a foreign power.” While Georgian Dream contends that the law aims to promote transparency regarding Western-funded groups allegedly undermining the country’s sovereignty, activists, journalists, and opposition figures accuse the government of employing violence and intimidation tactics.
Tensions are escalating in anticipation of the parliamentary elections slated for October, viewed as a pivotal test of democratic principles.
Despite the government’s stance, Georgia’s aspirations for EU accession are deeply entrenched in the country’s constitution and enjoy widespread support, with opinion polls indicating backing from over 80% of the population.