In the spring of 2021, Georgia witnessed a significant wave of protests as citizens expressed their concerns over the government’s attempt to introduce a controversial “foreign agents” bill. This proposed legislation, which drew parallels to similar laws in Russia that have been criticized for limiting freedom of expression, aimed to require media outlets and non-governmental organizations with over 20% of their funding from foreign sources to register as “agents of foreign influence.” Noncompliance would carry considerable fines.
Ana Tavazde, an engaged activist and one of many who participated in the demonstrations, emphasized the collective spirit of the movement: “We fought it off like hell, using every instrument at our disposal.” The robust public response ultimately led to the government’s decision to withdraw the bill after its initial reading in Parliament.
However, the victory was soon challenged when, in 2022, the government reintroduced the foreign agents bill, which Parliament approved in May, despite substantial public opposition. This prompted further protests from citizens who remained vocal in their dissent.
The political climate grew increasingly complex following the ruling Georgian Dream party’s declaration of victory in the contentious October 2022 elections, combined with a delay in the country’s much-anticipated application for European Union membership, now postponed to 2028. This decision provoked disappointment among many Georgians, prompting Tavazde and other citizens to once again engage in peaceful demonstrations.
In light of the rising unrest, the government responded by enhancing crowd-control measures and increasing law enforcement presence, which included investments in equipment and a series of arrests aimed at addressing the public outcry for democratic reforms and European integration. The situation in Georgia illustrates the ongoing dialogue surrounding civil rights and the aspiration for alignment with democratic values amid evolving political challenges.
