16 Apr 2024 | 10:10 AM UTC
Georgia: Demonstrations denouncing proposed legislation likely in major cities through mid-April /update 5
Opposition activists will likely continue protests in Georgia's major cities through mid-April. Heightened security, disruptions likely.
Opposition activists will likely continue calling for protests in major urban centers across Georgia through at least mid-April to denounce the so-called "foreign agents' law." The government-proposed bill, which remains under discussion in Parliament, would label all non-governmental organizations, media companies, and journalists receiving funding from outside the country as foreign agents.
The largest demonstrations denouncing the bill have occurred in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi. Further demonstrations are almost certain in these locations, and related gatherings are possible in smaller urban centers. In Tbilisi, opposition activists and civil society groups typically stage protests to the rear of Parliament (Dzmebi Zubalashvilebi Street) around 11:00 and in front of Parliament (Shota Rustaveli Avenue) around 19:00. While widespread violence has not been reported, protesters attempted to storm Parliament in Tbilisi on April 15, resulting in at least 14 arrests and one injury. A near-constant sit-in protest is also positioned outside Parliament. Protests in Batumi and Kutaisi have centered on the University Fountain and City Hall, respectively.
Georgia's Parliament announced increased security measures on April 15, stating that the yellow level of security would be in effect while the bill was undergoing committee hearings. No journalists or visitors are permitted to enter the building, and additional police units are reportedly on site.
Attendance levels at the gatherings have fluctuated, but evening protests in Tbilisi will likely feature the highest numbers of participants, with several thousand activists attending. Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near all protests that materialize, especially those that take shape near government buildings. While widespread violence is not anticipated, clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement officers are possible, particularly near Parliament in Tbilisi.
Avoid all protest activity as a standard precaution. Exercise caution and allow additional time if traveling near government buildings. Immediately depart the area at the first sign that any security disturbance may occur. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers.
The ruling Georgian Dream party introduced a similar bill in March 2023; however, it was withdrawn after tens of thousands of people gathered for two nights of large-scale protests in Tbilisi. Those demonstrations featured clashes between activists and law enforcement officers. Opposition parties and activists denounced the legislation as an attack on democracy and media freedom, promising to oppose the bill were it to be reintroduced. The new bill, introduced in early April, features slightly different language from the bill proposed in 2023; however, the impact of the law remains unchanged, and opposition to the bill will likely persist throughout the legislative process.
