Georgia, a former Soviet republic and candidate country for EU membership, is facing increasing control from the government on civil society. Despite heavy protests, a controversial law aimed at tightening control over non-governmental organizations passed in its second reading. Reports indicate that the police used water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets against demonstrators resulting in several injuries.
The legislation requires non-governmental organizations that receive more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad to disclose the origin of the money. Critics fear that it could be misused to stifle funding and persecute pro-Western forces similar to what’s happening in Russia. The ruling Georgian Dream party has been in power since 2012 and is facing criticism for becoming increasingly authoritarian ahead of parliamentary elections. Pro-European demonstrators are concerned that this shift in power could jeopardize Georgia’s hopes of joining the EU.
The Interior Ministry defended the police crackdown on protesters citing attempts to break down the doors of parliament as the reason for using force. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the violence on Tbilisi streets and expressed concern about Georgia’s future, emphasizing its importance to continue on its path towards Europe while staying true to its aspirations for a European future. The situation in Georgia hangs at a crossroads with the Georgian people’s dreams for a better future at stake.
