‘No to the Russian law!’ Georgia protesters demand a ‘European future’
Al Jazeera
Violence has rocked Tbilisi as angry citizens fear Georgia will fall into ‘enemy hands’.
Tbilisi, Georgia – Crowds of protesters have been braving tear gas and plastic bullets for more than two weeks in protest against the Georgian government’s draft law targeting civil society.
The new law would require non-profit entities (NGOs and media outlets) receiving more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad to register as “organisations pursuing the interest of a foreign influence”, with tough penalties for noncompliance of up to $9,000.
Mass demonstrations last year forced the government to withdraw a similar bill. This second attempt has given renewed energy to thousands of young people, from school pupils to university students, swelling a tide of discontent.
They believe their government has fallen under the influence of the Kremlin and is sabotaging their dreams of being part of Europe. Each night, the rallies have begun with the Georgian national anthem, as well as the EU’s, Ode to Joy.
“This is where I live, where my son will live – I don’t want Georgia in the enemy’s hands. I want it free for everyone,” fumes 25-year-old Giga.
