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The tension in Tbilisi continues to escalate as a standoff persists between the government and Georgian citizens protesting against a controversial “foreign agent” law. The protesters, who have been staging large demonstrations, have faced violent crackdowns by the authorities, including the use of rubber bullets, according to eyewitnesses.
Despite attempts to disperse the protests, traffic was only restored in the early hours of May 3 at a major intersection in the Georgian capital that had been blocked by peaceful demonstrators for several hours. As the protests moved to the area near the Paragraph Hotel, one person was detained for allegedly insulting police officers.
The Interior Ministry confirmed that at least 23 people were arrested overnight, bringing the total number of detainees to at least 100 over the past three days. Those detained have been accused of various offenses, including disobeying police officers.
Opponents of the proposed law, inspired by similar legislation in Russia, fear that it could threaten Georgia’s path towards European Union membership. The bill, which would require organizations receiving significant foreign funding to register as “agents of foreign influence,” has sparked widespread protests in the country.
The demonstrations turned violent on May 1, with riot police using water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets against protesters. Freelance reporter Davit Tamazashvili, who was injured during the clashes, recounted being hit by rubber bullets despite officials denying their use.
The United States and the European Union have condemned the controversial legislation, calling for dialogue and the withdrawal of the bill. UN human rights chief Volker Turk expressed concern over the excessive use of force against protesters and media workers in Tbilisi.
As the protests continue, with a large demonstration planned for May 11, Georgia remains divided over the implications of the “foreign agent” law. The government’s decision to reintroduce the legislation has sparked anger and unrest across the country, with President Salome Zurabishvili promising to veto the law if it is formally adopted.
Amidst international pressure and domestic dissent, the future of the controversial law remains uncertain as Georgia grapples with the implications of its implementation.
