Massive crowds flooded the streets of Georgia's capital following the passing of a controversial law by the parliament, sparking uproar among citizens. The bill, termed the 'Russian law' by critics, targets free speech and the nation's EU aspirations, resembling similar legislation used in Russia to suppress dissent.
The contentious law mandates media outlets and non-governmental organizations receiving over 20% of their funding from abroad to register as promoting foreign interests. While the government argues it's necessary to thwart destabilizing foreign influences, opposition views it as a threat to democracy.
Protests erupted immediately after the 84-30 vote, escalating as the night fell, with thousands converging on Heroes Square, blocking surrounding streets. The European Council and the White House expressed concerns over the bill, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic principles for Georgia's EU integration.
US officials warned of repercussions if the law undermines democracy or leads to violence against peaceful demonstrators. President Salome Zourabichvili pledged to veto the bill, yet the governing party holds a majority to override it.
Tensions flared within parliament, culminating in a physical altercation, while opposition figures denounced the bill as a betrayal of Georgia's European future. Renewed protests have gripped the nation for weeks, reflecting a deepening divide over its democratic trajectory.
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