Demonstrations against ‘transparency of foreign influence’ rage in Georgia

Demonstrators march with European Union flags against the draft law on ‘transparency of foreign influence’ in the Georgian capital Tbilisi

Demonstrators opposed to the draft law on the “transparency of foreign influence” gathered in Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi, on Easter night.

The demonstrators assembled in front of the parliament building, carrying flags of Georgia and the European Union (EU), as well as banners against the bill.

Subsequently, they attended the Easter service at the “Kashveti” church, located in front of the parliament building. Shota Rustaveli Street was closed to traffic due to the crowd in front of the church.

Protests against the draft law on the “transparency of foreign influence”, which the government resubmitted to the parliament, have been ongoing in Georgia for about three weeks.

During the demonstrations on May 1 and 2, security forces of the Ministry of Interior intervened with tear gas and water cannons against protesters who attempted to surround the gates of the parliament building and set up a barricade in front of it.

The draft law on the “transparency of foreign influence” has passed two approvals. The bill needs to receive approval three times in parliament to become law.

Last year, a similar bill was brought to the agenda and sparked massive protests.

Source: AA