Thousands of Georgians have been gathering outside the country's parliament in Tbilisi for weeks to protest a proposed 'foreign agent' law that they believe could jeopardize Georgia's bid to join the European Union and align it more closely with Russia.
The ruling Georgian Dream party is pushing the bill, which would require organizations receiving over 20% of their funding from abroad to register as 'foreign agents' or face heavy fines. Critics argue that the real targets are independent media and civil society groups, as the government seeks to maintain power ahead of upcoming elections.
Protests have intensified, with police responding forcefully. Opposition figures have reported brutal beatings, and tear gas has been used more aggressively, causing protesters to regroup in a park with historical significance to Georgia's fight for independence from the Soviet Union.
Georgians harbor deep animosity towards Russia, which invaded the country in 2008 and occupies a portion of its territory. Despite widespread anti-Russian sentiment, the ruling party has been accused of pro-Russian leanings, with its founder's ties to Russia raising suspicions.
Georgian Dream's leader made a rare appearance recently, espousing conspiracy theories and vowing to crack down on political opponents after the elections. The United States has criticized Georgia's shift towards anti-Western rhetoric and authoritarian tendencies.
As protests continue unabated, some speculate whether they could escalate into a full-blown revolution. Georgians remain resolute in their fight for freedom and European integration, with many expressing unity and determination to resist any attempts to undermine their democratic aspirations.
