A fresh wave of protests has erupted in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, as demonstrators take to the streets over political tensions and government policies. The protests have sparked clashes with police, highlighting growing unrest in the country.

Georgia: Fresh Wave Of Protest Breaks Out In Capital Tbilisi

Georgia's parliament voted to override a presidential veto of a bill on "foreign agents" that has plunged the country into crisis, ignoring criticism from the West which says the legislation is authoritarian and pro-Russian.

Gravitas: Georgian parliament votes against president's veto of foreign agents bill

The Georgian parliament on Tuesday overrode a presidential veto of the “foreign agents” bill that has prompted weeks of massive protests by critics. Watch in for more details!

Georgia parliament votes to overrule President veto

Georgia’s parliament once again adopted&nbsp;the highly controversial “foreign agents” bill, on Tuesday (May 28) despite weeks of, often violent, protests with many criticising it for being similar to Russia’s repressive legislation.&nbsp;

The legislation was first adopted on May 14 but was vetoed by the country's president.

<h2>What is the legislation about?</h2>

The so-called “foreign agents” law now requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other non-governmental organisations receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.”&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Georgia foreign agents bill protests: PM Irakli Kobakhidze vows to pass bill

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The legislation pitched by the ruling Georgian Dream party also threatens the country’s bid to join the European Union. Meanwhile, the party has argued that the legislation is needed to enhance the transparency of NGO funding and protect the country from interference by the West.&nbsp;

The former PM and the ruling party’s founder Bidzina Ivanishvili had spoken about how interference from Western powers could drag Georgia into a war with Russia, in which Georgians are used as cannon fodder.

A report by AFP has said the billionaire founder of the party, Ivanishvili, has made his fortune in Russia and also accused NGOs of plotting a revolution and being foreign puppets.

<h2>Presidential veto overridden</h2>

In an interview with CNN, earlier this month,&nbsp;Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili called the legislation “an exact duplicate” of its Russian counterpart and&nbsp;vowed to veto the bill.&nbsp;

However, it did not make a difference since Georgia’s government is a parliamentary system,&nbsp;where the president is a nominal head. Additionally,&nbsp;since&nbsp;the parliament&nbsp;is controlled by the ruling party they were able to&nbsp;override her veto.&nbsp;

Lawmakers voted 84 to four to pass the bill after rejecting&nbsp;the presidential veto, on Tuesday (May 28).&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-parliament-backs-foreign-agent-bill-second-reading-amid-protests-717149">Georgia parliament backs ‘foreign agent’ bill second reading amid protests</a>

It is also worth noting that despite the ruling party’s anti-Western rhetoric, they want the country to join the 27-nation bloc as well as NATO. A report by Reuters citing a poll also said that Georgia’s 3.7 million people back EU accession.&nbsp;

Over the years, Russia, which occupies about 20 per cent of Georgia’s internationally recognised territory, has used similar legislation to crack down on NGOs and independent news media who are critical of the Kremlin.&nbsp;

The ruling Georgian Dream party re-introduced the bill in a shocking move last month, a year after shelving it due to a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anti-government-protesters-fill-the-streets-of-georgian-capital-tbilisi-again-580799">huge backlash</a>.

In an interview with news agency AFP, earlier this month,&nbsp;Georgian Dream MP Nikoloz Samkharadze criticised the outrage over the bill and said it has “nothing to do with the Russian” version.&nbsp;

However, the EU and international rights groups disagree. Several groups have decried the law as undemocratic, while the 27-nation bloc has indicated it is not compatible with membership of the EU.&nbsp;

<h2>Mass protests, student walkout on May 13-14</h2>

Since April, thousands of Georgians have staged near-nightly protests against the proposed bill. On May 13, hundreds of university students in the Georgian capital, Tbilisi walked out of classes and joined thousands of protesters opposing the bill.&nbsp;

Riot police in the country armed with water cannons and teargas have been accused of beating protesters who picketed outside Georgia’s parliament, on Monday (May 13) morning to try and stop a final vote.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On May 12, several thousand protesters staged an all-night rally outside parliament but failed to prevent lawmakers from entering the parliament after the MPs managed to access the building from the back and pushed the bill through a parliamentary legal committee in less than two minutes.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-protesters-rally-against-foreign-agent-bill-in-georgia-570056">Thousands of protesters rally against 'foreign agent' bill in Georgia</a>

The critics of the bill and many protesters, as per AFP, said that they see the bill as a symbol of their government’s wider drift towards Russia.&nbsp;

Georgia’s Interior Ministry said that at least 20 people, including two American citizens and one Russian national, were detained during the rallies, earlier this month.&nbsp;

The country’s Special Investigation Service, which investigates allegations of police brutality said they&nbsp;have opened a case into claims of use of excessive force by police personnel&nbsp;during the protests on May 13 and 14.&nbsp;

<h2>Criticism at home and abroad</h2>

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, on May 13 vowed to&nbsp;pass the bill claiming that the law enjoyed wide support in the country.&nbsp;

However, mass protests continued on Tuesday (May 28) exactly two weeks after the bill was first adopted. The crowd gathered outside the parliament&nbsp;was shouting&nbsp;“Russian slaves!” during the vote.&nbsp;

Leader of the opposition United National Movement (UNM) party, Tina Bokuchava,&nbsp;called on the opposition parties to rally together to rescind the legislation before the elections after the presidential veto was overturned.&nbsp;

Bokuchava also voiced her concerns about the upcoming elections saying&nbsp;that the law could be used by authorities to throw a shroud over the election process.

"Georgian Dream understands that it would lose power should the elections be free and fair, and Georgia's vibrant civil sector can act against electoral violations," said the UNM leader as quoted by AFP.&nbsp;

Parliamentary elections in the country are scheduled to be held on October 26.&nbsp;

Less than 10 days after the legislation was first passed,&nbsp;the United States announced travel sanctions against Georgian officials “who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia.” The move has since been criticised by Tbilisi.&nbsp;

EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell said that he “deeply regrets” the Georgian parliament’s adoption of the controversial legislation, on Tuesday (May 28)&nbsp;and warned that it would affect the country’s efforts to join the 27-nation bloc.&nbsp;

The US&nbsp;State Department spokesman Matthew Miller after the presidential veto was overridden called the bill "anti-democratic" and said&nbsp;that it "fails to conform to European norms." He added,&nbsp;"The United States condemns this action."&nbsp;

After the legislation was adopted, ministers from European nations and the three Baltic countries, in separate statements, also&nbsp;criticised the decision.

(With inputs from agencies)

Georgia’s parliament once again adopted the highly controversial “foreign agents” bill, on Tuesday (May 28) despite weeks of, often violent, protests with many criticising it for being similar to Russia’s repressive legislation.

Georgia’s parliament once again adopted the highly controversial “foreign agents” bill, on Tuesday (May 28) despite weeks of, often violent, protests with many criticising it for being similar to Russia’s repressive legislation. The legislation was first adopted on May 14 but was vetoed by the country's president. What is the legislation about? The so-called “foreign agents” law now requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other non-governmental organisations receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.” WATCH | Georgia foreign agents bill protests: PM Irakli Kobakhidze vows to pass bill The legislation pitched by the ruling Georgian Dream party also threatens the country’s bid to join the European Union. Meanwhile, the party has argued that the legislation is needed to enhance the transparency of NGO funding and protect the country from interference by the West. The former PM and the ruling party’s founder Bidzina Ivanishvili had spoken about how interference from Western powers could drag Georgia into a war with Russia, in which Georgians are used as cannon fodder. A report by AFP has said the billionaire founder of the party, Ivanishvili, has made his fortune in Russia and also accused NGOs of plotting a revolution and being foreign puppets. Presidential veto overridden In an interview with CNN, earlier this month, Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili called the legislation “an exact duplicate” of its Russian counterpart and vowed to veto the bill. However, it did not make a difference since Georgia’s government is a parliamentary system, where the president is a nominal head. Additionally, since the parliament is controlled by the ruling party they were able to override her veto. Lawmakers voted 84 to four to pass the bill after rejecting the presidential veto, on Tuesday (May 28). Also Read | Georgia parliament backs ‘foreign agent’ bill second reading amid protests It is also worth noting that despite the ruling party’s anti-Western rhetoric, they want the country to join the 27-nation bloc as well as NATO. A report by Reuters citing a poll also said that Georgia’s 3.7 million people back EU accession. Over the years, Russia, which occupies about 20 per cent of Georgia’s internationally recognised territory, has used similar legislation to crack down on NGOs and independent news media who are critical of the Kremlin. The ruling Georgian Dream party re-introduced the bill in a shocking move last month, a year after shelving it due to a huge backlash. In an interview with news agency AFP, earlier this month, Georgian Dream MP Nikoloz Samkharadze criticised the outrage over the bill and said it has “nothing to do with the Russian” version. However, the EU and international rights groups disagree. Several groups have decried the law as undemocratic, while the 27-nation bloc has indicated it is not compatible with membership of the EU. Mass protests, student walkout on May 13-14 Since April, thousands of Georgians have staged near-nightly protests against the proposed bill. On May 13, hundreds of university students in the Georgian capital, Tbilisi walked out of classes and joined thousands of protesters opposing the bill. Riot police in the country armed with water cannons and teargas have been accused of beating protesters who picketed outside Georgia’s parliament, on Monday (May 13) morning to try and stop a final vote. On May 12, several thousand protesters staged an all-night rally outside parliament but failed to prevent lawmakers from entering the parliament after the MPs managed to access the building from the back and pushed the bill through a parliamentary legal committee in less than two minutes. Also Read | Thousands of protesters rally against 'foreign agent' bill in Georgia The critics of the bill and many protesters, as per AFP, said that they see the bill as a symbol of their government’s wider drift towards Russia. Georgia’s Interior Ministry said that at least 20 people, including two American citizens and one Russian national, were detained during the rallies, earlier this month. The country’s Special Investigation Service, which investigates allegations of police brutality said they have opened a case into claims of use of excessive force by police personnel during the protests on May 13 and 14. Criticism at home and abroad Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, on May 13 vowed to pass the bill claiming that the law enjoyed wide support in the country. However, mass protests continued on Tuesday (May 28) exactly two weeks after the bill was first adopted. The crowd gathered outside the parliament was shouting “Russian slaves!” during the vote. Leader of the opposition United National Movement (UNM) party, Tina Bokuchava, called on the opposition parties to rally together to rescind the legislation before the elections after the presidential veto was overturned. Bokuchava also voiced her concerns about the upcoming elections saying that the law could be used by authorities to throw a shroud over the election process. "Georgian Dream understands that it would lose power should the elections be free and fair, and Georgia's vibrant civil sector can act against electoral violations," said the UNM leader as quoted by AFP. Parliamentary elections in the country are scheduled to be held on October 26. Less than 10 days after the legislation was first passed, the United States announced travel sanctions against Georgian officials “who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia.” The move has since been criticised by Tbilisi. EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell said that he “deeply regrets” the Georgian parliament’s adoption of the controversial legislation, on Tuesday (May 28) and warned that it would affect the country’s efforts to join the 27-nation bloc. The US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller after the presidential veto was overridden called the bill "anti-democratic" and said that it "fails to conform to European norms." He added, "The United States condemns this action." After the legislation was adopted, ministers from European nations and the three Baltic countries, in separate statements, also criticised the decision. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Georgia adopts ‘foreign agents’ law after overriding presidential veto

Georgia’s parliament on Tuesday (May 28) adopted the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-georgia-to-pass-foreign-agents-bill-amid-protests-what-is-it-about-721338">highly controversial “foreign agents” legislation</a>, which has sparked weeks of protests and drawn international condemnation after overriding a veto by President Salome Zurabishvili who, among many others has called the law authoritarian and Russian-inspired.&nbsp;

<h2>Presidential veto overridden</h2>

Lawmakers voted 84 to four to pass the bill after overriding the presidential veto. The move came as thousands had gathered outside Georgia’s parliament to protest the passage. Meanwhile, most of the opposition members walked out of the chamber ahead of the vote.

According to AFP, tensions were high in the parliament ahead of the vote with Opposition lawmaker Giorgi Vashadze doused with water as he gave a speech. The veto was overridden <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgian-parliament-rejects-presidential-veto-of-foreign-agents-legislation-pm-prez-lash-out-at-each-other-725966">a day after</a> parliament’s judiciary committee had rejected it.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, several countries in Europe as well as the European Union criticised the decision as the legislation threatens the country’s bid to join the 27-nation bloc.&nbsp;

On May 14, Georgia’s parliament adopted the highly controversial “foreign agents” bill, despite weeks of, often violent, protests with many including the country’s president calling it similar to a Russian law used by Moscow to crack down on NGOs and independent news media who are critical of the Kremlin.&nbsp;

The so-called “foreign agents” law now requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other NGOs receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.”&nbsp;

Zourabichvili, who is among the critics of the bill, vetoed the legislation days after it was passed in parliament by lawmakers of the ruling Georgian Dream party and its allies.&nbsp;

<h2>Watch: Protests outside Georgian parliament</h2>

Ahead of the vote, thousands of demonstrators had gathered outside the parliament to protest the legislation. “Russian slaves!” the crowd was shouting during the vote, as per AFP.&nbsp;

Georgia has witnessed a wave of unprecedented protests for the past seven weeks or so after the Georgian Dream party revived the plans to adopt so-called Russian-inspired measures it had dropped last year after public outcry.&nbsp;

“I think we were all expecting this outcome, but I feel so angry, I feel so frustrated. The most important thing right now is to not lose hope,” protester Lizi Kenchoshvili, 23, told AFP outside parliament minutes after the vote.&nbsp;

A video reportedly shot outside the Georgian parliament also shows Opposition MPs on a stage reading out the names of the 84 lawmakers who voted in favour of the Russian-inspired law. The crowd can be heard whistling and booing as the names are read out.&nbsp;

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Opposition MPs are reading the names of the 84 Georgian Dream MPs who voted in favor of the Russian law. 
 
See the people’s reaction: <a href="https://t.co/9LJuaT9mEy">pic.twitter.com/9LJuaT9mEy</a>
— Katie Shoshiashvili (@KShoshiashvili) <a href="https://twitter.com/KShoshiashvili/status/1795478025057841655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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At one point Georgia’s interior ministry took to X and asked protesters to allow members of the parliament to leave the building “without interruption.”

Leader of the opposition United National Movement (UNM) party, Tina Bokuchava, called on the opposition parties to rally together to rescind the legislation before the elections.&nbsp;

Parliamentary elections in the country are scheduled to be held on October 26.&nbsp;

<h2>International criticism</h2>

EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell said that he “deeply regrets” the Georgian parliament’s adoption of the controversial legislation and warned that it would affect the country’s efforts to join the 27-nation bloc.&nbsp;

“The EU and its member states are considering all options to react to these developments,” said Borrell, in a statement. A report by Reuters citing a poll also said that Georgia’s 3.7 million people back EU accession.&nbsp;

Last week, the United States announced travel sanctions against Georgian officials “who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia.” The move has since been criticised by Tbilisi.&nbsp;

After the legislation was adopted, ministers from European nations and the three Baltic countries, in separate statements,&nbsp;criticised the decision.&nbsp;

Michael Roth, chair of the German Bundestag’s foreign affairs committee said it’s “a sad day for Georgia and Europe”. He also called on Georgians not to give up.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Danish foreign minister Lars Rasmussen warned that unless the ruling party changes its course “Georgia will not advance on path to EU membership.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Georgia’s parliament on Tuesday (May 28) adopted the highly controversial “foreign agents” legislation, which has sparked weeks of protests and drawn international condemnation after overriding a veto by President Salome Zurabishvili who, among many others has called the law authoritarian and Russian-inspired.

Georgia’s parliament on Tuesday (May 28) adopted the highly controversial “foreign agents” legislation, which has sparked weeks of protests and drawn international condemnation after overriding a veto by President Salome Zurabishvili who, among many others has called the law authoritarian and Russian-inspired. Presidential veto overridden Lawmakers voted 84 to four to pass the bill after overriding the presidential veto. The move came as thousands had gathered outside Georgia’s parliament to protest the passage. Meanwhile, most of the opposition members walked out of the chamber ahead of the vote. According to AFP, tensions were high in the parliament ahead of the vote with Opposition lawmaker Giorgi Vashadze doused with water as he gave a speech. The veto was overridden a day after parliament’s judiciary committee had rejected it. Meanwhile, several countries in Europe as well as the European Union criticised the decision as the legislation threatens the country’s bid to join the 27-nation bloc. On May 14, Georgia’s parliament adopted the highly controversial “foreign agents” bill, despite weeks of, often violent, protests with many including the country’s president calling it similar to a Russian law used by Moscow to crack down on NGOs and independent news media who are critical of the Kremlin. The so-called “foreign agents” law now requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other NGOs receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.” Zourabichvili, who is among the critics of the bill, vetoed the legislation days after it was passed in parliament by lawmakers of the ruling Georgian Dream party and its allies. Watch: Protests outside Georgian parliament Ahead of the vote, thousands of demonstrators had gathered outside the parliament to protest the legislation. “Russian slaves!” the crowd was shouting during the vote, as per AFP. Georgia has witnessed a wave of unprecedented protests for the past seven weeks or so after the Georgian Dream party revived the plans to adopt so-called Russian-inspired measures it had dropped last year after public outcry. “I think we were all expecting this outcome, but I feel so angry, I feel so frustrated. The most important thing right now is to not lose hope,” protester Lizi Kenchoshvili, 23, told AFP outside parliament minutes after the vote. A video reportedly shot outside the Georgian parliament also shows Opposition MPs on a stage reading out the names of the 84 lawmakers who voted in favour of the Russian-inspired law. The crowd can be heard whistling and booing as the names are read out. Opposition MPs are reading the names of the 84 Georgian Dream MPs who voted in favor of the Russian law. See the people’s reaction: pic.twitter.com/9LJuaT9mEy — Katie Shoshiashvili (@KShoshiashvili) May 28, 2024 × At one point Georgia’s interior ministry took to X and asked protesters to allow members of the parliament to leave the building “without interruption.” Leader of the opposition United National Movement (UNM) party, Tina Bokuchava, called on the opposition parties to rally together to rescind the legislation before the elections. Parliamentary elections in the country are scheduled to be held on October 26. International criticism EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell said that he “deeply regrets” the Georgian parliament’s adoption of the controversial legislation and warned that it would affect the country’s efforts to join the 27-nation bloc. “The EU and its member states are considering all options to react to these developments,” said Borrell, in a statement. A report by Reuters citing a poll also said that Georgia’s 3.7 million people back EU accession. Last week, the United States announced travel sanctions against Georgian officials “who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia.” The move has since been criticised by Tbilisi. After the legislation was adopted, ministers from European nations and the three Baltic countries, in separate statements, criticised the decision. Michael Roth, chair of the German Bundestag’s foreign affairs committee said it’s “a sad day for Georgia and Europe”. He also called on Georgians not to give up. Meanwhile, Danish foreign minister Lars Rasmussen warned that unless the ruling party changes its course “Georgia will not advance on path to EU membership.” (With inputs from agencies)

Georgian parliament overrides presidential veto, adopts ‘foreign agents’ law amid protests

A Georgian parliament committee, on Monday (May 27) rejected the president’s veto of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-georgia-to-pass-foreign-agents-bill-amid-protests-what-is-it-about-721338">highly controversial “foreign agents”</a> legislation, reported the Associated Press, which was passed by lawmakers over two weeks ago despite massive protests and international criticism.&nbsp;

<h2>Presidential veto rejected&nbsp;</h2>

The move by the parliament’s judiciary committee paves the way for the ruling Georgian Dream party and its allies to vote on a full legislature on Tuesday (May 28) to officially override President Salome Zourabichvili’s veto.&nbsp;

On May 14, Georgia’s parliament adopted the highly controversial “foreign agents” bill, despite weeks of, often violent, protests with many including the country’s president calling it similar to a Russian law used by Moscow to crack down on NGOs and independent news media who are critical of the Kremlin.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-president-says-vetoed-controversial-foreign-influence-law-722880">Georgia’s ‘foreign agents’ bill: President vetoes controversial law after weeks of protests</a>

The so-called “foreign agents” law now requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other NGOs receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.”&nbsp;

Zourabichvili, who is among the critics of the bill, vetoed the legislation days after it was passed in parliament by lawmakers of the ruling party and its allies who have sufficient votes to override her veto in the chamber.&nbsp;

<h2>Georgia’s Independence Day marked by speeches, protests</h2>

The rejection of the veto by the Georgian parliament committee comes a day after the country celebrated its independence day with tension running high as Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and the president lashed out at each other over the legislation during the ceremony marking the occasion.&nbsp;

In her speech, Zourabichvili criticised the legislation which threatens the country’s bid to join the European Union.&nbsp;

“As the specter of Russia looms over us, partnership and rapprochement with Europe are the true path to preserving and strengthening our independence and peace,” said the president, on Sunday (May 26) at the ceremony celebrating the 106th anniversary of Tbilisi’s declaration of independence from Moscow.&nbsp;

She added, “Those who sabotage and undermine this path trample upon and damage the peaceful and secure future of our country, hindering the path towards becoming a full member of the free and democratic world.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-introduces-new-visa-restrictions-on-georgia-over-foreign-agent-bill-724757">US introduces new visa restrictions on Georgia over 'foreign agent' bill</a>

At the same ceremony, the PM praised the country’s development and criticised the president. “It was the unity and reasonable steps of the people and their elected government that gave us the opportunity to maintain peace in the country for the past two years despite existential threats and multiple betrayals, including the betrayal of the president of Georgia,” said Kobakhidze.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, thousands took to the streets of the Georgian capital city of Tbilisi in protest of the “foreign agents” legislation amid reports of clashes between demonstrators and the police.&nbsp;

A report by Reuters citing a poll also said that Georgia’s 3.7 million people back EU accession.&nbsp;However, the foreign arm of the 27-nation bloc said that the adoption of the law “negatively impacts Georgia’s progress on the EU path.”

Last week, the United States announced travel sanctions against Georgian officials “who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia.” The move has since been criticised by Tbilisi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A Georgian parliament committee, on Monday (May 27) rejected the president’s veto of the highly controversial “foreign agents” legislation, reported the Associated Press, which was passed by lawmakers over two weeks ago despite massive protests and international criticism.

A Georgian parliament committee, on Monday (May 27) rejected the president’s veto of the highly controversial “foreign agents” legislation, reported the Associated Press, which was passed by lawmakers over two weeks ago despite massive protests and international criticism. Presidential veto rejected The move by the parliament’s judiciary committee paves the way for the ruling Georgian Dream party and its allies to vote on a full legislature on Tuesday (May 28) to officially override President Salome Zourabichvili’s veto. On May 14, Georgia’s parliament adopted the highly controversial “foreign agents” bill, despite weeks of, often violent, protests with many including the country’s president calling it similar to a Russian law used by Moscow to crack down on NGOs and independent news media who are critical of the Kremlin. Also Read | Georgia’s ‘foreign agents’ bill: President vetoes controversial law after weeks of protests The so-called “foreign agents” law now requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other NGOs receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.” Zourabichvili, who is among the critics of the bill, vetoed the legislation days after it was passed in parliament by lawmakers of the ruling party and its allies who have sufficient votes to override her veto in the chamber. Georgia’s Independence Day marked by speeches, protests The rejection of the veto by the Georgian parliament committee comes a day after the country celebrated its independence day with tension running high as Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and the president lashed out at each other over the legislation during the ceremony marking the occasion. In her speech, Zourabichvili criticised the legislation which threatens the country’s bid to join the European Union. “As the specter of Russia looms over us, partnership and rapprochement with Europe are the true path to preserving and strengthening our independence and peace,” said the president, on Sunday (May 26) at the ceremony celebrating the 106th anniversary of Tbilisi’s declaration of independence from Moscow. She added, “Those who sabotage and undermine this path trample upon and damage the peaceful and secure future of our country, hindering the path towards becoming a full member of the free and democratic world.” Also Read | US introduces new visa restrictions on Georgia over 'foreign agent' bill At the same ceremony, the PM praised the country’s development and criticised the president. “It was the unity and reasonable steps of the people and their elected government that gave us the opportunity to maintain peace in the country for the past two years despite existential threats and multiple betrayals, including the betrayal of the president of Georgia,” said Kobakhidze. Meanwhile, thousands took to the streets of the Georgian capital city of Tbilisi in protest of the “foreign agents” legislation amid reports of clashes between demonstrators and the police. A report by Reuters citing a poll also said that Georgia’s 3.7 million people back EU accession. However, the foreign arm of the 27-nation bloc said that the adoption of the law “negatively impacts Georgia’s progress on the EU path.” Last week, the United States announced travel sanctions against Georgian officials “who are responsible for or complicit in undermining democracy in Georgia.” The move has since been criticised by Tbilisi. (With inputs from agencies)

Georgian parliament rejects presidential veto of ‘foreign agents’ legislation; PM, prez lash out at each other

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the draft "foreign influence" or so-called "Russian law" that provoked massive protests for weeks. Watch to know more.

Georgian President vetoes Foreign Agent law, says 'it stalls our pathway to EU membership'

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the draft "foreign influence" or so-called "Russian law" that provoked massive protests for weeks.

The law had also invited sharp criticism from Brussels as it warned that the particular measure would vandalise Tbilisi's European aspirations.

"Today I vetoed a Russian law. This law is Russian in its essence and spirit," she said in a televised statement, speaking about the bill that critics describe as resembling Russian legislation used to silence dissent.

"It contradicts our constitution and all European standards, therefore it represents an obstacle to our European path," she added.

Zourabichvili had previously stated that she would veto the bill after saying that she considered the law “unacceptable.”

However, her decision can be rescinded by a second vote in parliament, which Georgia's ruling party and its allies majorly control.

As per TASS reports, the president said that her veto was legally sound and that it would be handed over to parliament on Saturday (May 18).

"This law must be repealed," she said.

Mass protests erupted across the Georgian capital Tbilisi over the past month after the first reading of the draft law was passed in parliament.

The so-called ‘foreign agents’ law requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other non-governmental organisations receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.”&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-georgia-to-pass-foreign-agents-bill-amid-protests-what-is-it-about-721338">Also read: Explained: Georgia adopts ‘foreign agents’ law amid protests. What is it about?</a>

<h2>Mass protests, student walkout</h2>

Since April, thousands of Georgians have staged near-nightly protests against the proposed legislation.&nbsp;

Earlier on Monday (May 13), hundreds of university students in the Georgian capital, Tbilisi walked out of classes and joined thousands of protesters opposing the bill.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-adopts-controversial-foreign-agents-law-amid-brawls-and-protests-721374">Also read: Georgia adopts controversial ‘foreign agents’ law amid brawls and protests</a>

Last week, several thousand protesters staged an all-night rally outside parliament but failed to prevent lawmakers from entering on Monday after the MPs managed to access the building from the back and pushed the bill through a parliamentary legal committee in less than two minutes.&nbsp;

The government, however, has argued that the law is needed to promote transparency, combat “pseudo-liberal values” promoted by foreigners and preserve the country’s sovereignty.

(With inputs from agencies)

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the draft "foreign influence" or so-called "Russian law" that provoked massive protests for weeks. The law had also invited sharp criticism from Brussels as it warned that the particular measure would vandalise Tbilisi's European aspirations.

Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili vetoed the draft "foreign influence" or so-called "Russian law" that provoked massive protests for weeks. The law had also invited sharp criticism from Brussels as it warned that the particular measure would vandalise Tbilisi's European aspirations. "Today I vetoed a Russian law. This law is Russian in its essence and spirit," she said in a televised statement, speaking about the bill that critics describe as resembling Russian legislation used to silence dissent. "It contradicts our constitution and all European standards, therefore it represents an obstacle to our European path," she added. Zourabichvili had previously stated that she would veto the bill after saying that she considered the law “unacceptable.” However, her decision can be rescinded by a second vote in parliament, which Georgia's ruling party and its allies majorly control. As per TASS reports, the president said that her veto was legally sound and that it would be handed over to parliament on Saturday (May 18). "This law must be repealed," she said. Mass protests erupted across the Georgian capital Tbilisi over the past month after the first reading of the draft law was passed in parliament. The so-called ‘foreign agents’ law requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other non-governmental organisations receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.” Also read: Explained: Georgia adopts ‘foreign agents’ law amid protests. What is it about? Mass protests, student walkout Since April, thousands of Georgians have staged near-nightly protests against the proposed legislation. Earlier on Monday (May 13), hundreds of university students in the Georgian capital, Tbilisi walked out of classes and joined thousands of protesters opposing the bill. Also read: Georgia adopts controversial ‘foreign agents’ law amid brawls and protests Last week, several thousand protesters staged an all-night rally outside parliament but failed to prevent lawmakers from entering on Monday after the MPs managed to access the building from the back and pushed the bill through a parliamentary legal committee in less than two minutes. The government, however, has argued that the law is needed to promote transparency, combat “pseudo-liberal values” promoted by foreigners and preserve the country’s sovereignty. (With inputs from agencies)

Georgia’s ‘foreign agents’ bill: President vetoes controversial law after weeks of protests

Georgia's parliament has passed a controversial 'Foreign Agents' bill despite widespread domestic opposition and warnings from the European Union that its enactment would imperil the country's chances of joining the bloc.

Georgia unrest: Why is Georgia up in arms? | Foreign Agents Bill triggers global outrage

As protesters throng the Georgian capital of Tbilisi bringing traffic much of the city to a halt. The European Union has urged the country to withdraw its highly contested foreign agents bill.

EU urges Georgia to withdraw contested bill

Georgia's parliament has passed a controversial "foreign agents" bill despite widespread domestic opposition and warnings from the European Union that its enactment would imperil the country's chances of joining the bloc.

Georgia passes 'foreign agent' bill amid protests

The streets of Georgia are witnessing large-scale protests. But untouched by demonstrations the country's Parliament has voted to approve the third and final reading of the 'Foreign Agents Bill'.

Georgia Protests: PM Irakli Kobakhidze throws his weight behind the bill

Georgia Protests: Foreign agents bill passed despite protests

Georgia’s parliament adopted the highly controversial ‘foreign agents’ bill, on Tuesday (May 14) despite weeks of, often violent, protests, which has been criticised for being similar to Russia’s repressive legislation used to silence dissent.

<h2>Controversial bill adopted&nbsp;</h2>

Lawmakers voted 84 to 30 to pass the law in its third and final reading, a live broadcast of the parliamentary session showed, according to AFP. The legislation was adopted in the 150-member parliament where the ruling Georgian Dream party and its allies have a majority.&nbsp;

While Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili criticised the bill and said she would veto it, it won’t make a difference.&nbsp;

Georgia’s government is a parliamentary system, where the president is a nominal head, not to mention the fact that the parliament, which is controlled by the ruling party, can override her veto.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-georgia-to-pass-foreign-agents-bill-amid-protests-what-is-it-about-721338">Explained: Georgia adopts ‘foreign agents’ law amid protests. What is it about?</a>

The so-called ‘foreign agents’ law now requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other non-governmental organisations receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.”&nbsp;

Since April, thousands of Georgians have staged near-nightly protests against the proposed legislation.&nbsp;

However, the government has argued that the law is needed to promote transparency, combat “pseudo-liberal values” promoted by foreigners and preserve the country’s sovereignty.

<h2>Watch: Brawl breaks out in parliament&nbsp;</h2>

Georgia television broadcast had earlier shown scuffles break&nbsp;out between the MPs of the ruling party and the opposition lawmakers, who pushed each other and gesticulated angrily during debates on the bill.&nbsp;

A clip from the parliament shows dozens of lawmakers moving towards two Members of Parliament to break up what appeared to be a fistfight.&nbsp;

Subsequently, another altercation began where two other lawmakers began hitting each other, while those around can be seen pointing fingers and arguing. &nbsp;

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🇪🇺🇬🇪 Bill on “foreign agents” in Georgia: fight in parliament, protests on the street 
 
A brawl broke out in the Georgian parliament between members of the ruling Georgian Dream faction and the opposition. The meeting was suspended indefinitely. <a href="https://t.co/8y0YRUQqDx">pic.twitter.com/8y0YRUQqDx</a>
— Tracey SBU Fella 🇬🇧🇺🇦 #NAFO (@trajaykay) <a href="https://twitter.com/trajaykay/status/1790345323681812823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Protests outside</h2>

While lawmakers were fighting inside the parliament, around 1,000 protesters picketed the fortress-like parliament building with a massive police presence and water cannon, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Upon hearing that the bill had passed, the demonstrators gathered reportedly yelled “Slaves!” and “Russians!”&nbsp;

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We can hear that the people are knocking hard on the front gates of the Parliament as the law has just been adopted at the third hearing. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NoToRussianLaw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NoToRussianLaw</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GeorgiaProtests?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GeorgiaProtests</a> <a href="https://t.co/holOu0Hvyf">pic.twitter.com/holOu0Hvyf</a>
— Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@Mikiashvili_M) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mikiashvili_M/status/1790350841527906624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The legislation pitched by the ruling Georgian Dream party threatens the country’s bid to join the European Union. A report by Reuters citing a poll also said that Georgia’s 3.7 million people back EU accession.&nbsp;

So far, the United States, Britain, Germany, Italy and France have urged Georgia to withdraw the bill.

<h2>Baltic, Iceland ministers head to Georgia</h2>

On Tuesday, ministers from the countries in the Baltics and Iceland said they would head to Georgia to urge Tbilisi to scrap the bill warning that it will derail the ex-Soviet republic’s chances of joining the EU, Lithuania’s top diplomat told AFP.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-parliament-backs-foreign-agent-bill-second-reading-amid-protests-717149">Georgia parliament backs ‘foreign agent’ bill second reading amid protests</a>

The bill is “incompatible with the country’s pro-European direction,” Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis told the news agency.&nbsp;

He added, “Today, we are travelling to Georgia with the Icelandic, Estonian and Latvian (foreign) ministers to express our concerns to politicians and meet with civil society.”

On Wednesday, the ministers plan to meet the Georgian president as well as the head of the parliament and the foreign minister and are also expected to join thousands of people protesting the law.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Georgia’s parliament adopted the highly controversial ‘foreign agents’ bill, on Tuesday (May 14) despite weeks of, often violent, protests, which has been criticised for being similar to Russia’s repressive legislation used to silence dissent.

Georgia’s parliament adopted the highly controversial ‘foreign agents’ bill, on Tuesday (May 14) despite weeks of, often violent, protests, which has been criticised for being similar to Russia’s repressive legislation used to silence dissent. Controversial bill adopted Lawmakers voted 84 to 30 to pass the law in its third and final reading, a live broadcast of the parliamentary session showed, according to AFP. The legislation was adopted in the 150-member parliament where the ruling Georgian Dream party and its allies have a majority. While Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili criticised the bill and said she would veto it, it won’t make a difference. Georgia’s government is a parliamentary system, where the president is a nominal head, not to mention the fact that the parliament, which is controlled by the ruling party, can override her veto. Also Read | Explained: Georgia adopts ‘foreign agents’ law amid protests. What is it about? The so-called ‘foreign agents’ law now requires organisations, including media outlets, nonprofits and other non-governmental organisations receiving more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as bodies “pursuing the interests of a foreign power.” Since April, thousands of Georgians have staged near-nightly protests against the proposed legislation. However, the government has argued that the law is needed to promote transparency, combat “pseudo-liberal values” promoted by foreigners and preserve the country’s sovereignty. Watch: Brawl breaks out in parliament Georgia television broadcast had earlier shown scuffles break out between the MPs of the ruling party and the opposition lawmakers, who pushed each other and gesticulated angrily during debates on the bill. A clip from the parliament shows dozens of lawmakers moving towards two Members of Parliament to break up what appeared to be a fistfight. Subsequently, another altercation began where two other lawmakers began hitting each other, while those around can be seen pointing fingers and arguing. 🇪🇺🇬🇪 Bill on “foreign agents” in Georgia: fight in parliament, protests on the street A brawl broke out in the Georgian parliament between members of the ruling Georgian Dream faction and the opposition. The meeting was suspended indefinitely. pic.twitter.com/8y0YRUQqDx — Tracey SBU Fella 🇬🇧🇺🇦 #NAFO (@trajaykay) May 14, 2024 × Protests outside While lawmakers were fighting inside the parliament, around 1,000 protesters picketed the fortress-like parliament building with a massive police presence and water cannon, reported Reuters. Upon hearing that the bill had passed, the demonstrators gathered reportedly yelled “Slaves!” and “Russians!” We can hear that the people are knocking hard on the front gates of the Parliament as the law has just been adopted at the third hearing. #NoToRussianLaw #GeorgiaProtests pic.twitter.com/holOu0Hvyf — Marika Mikiashvili 🇬🇪🇺🇦🇪🇺 (@Mikiashvili_M) May 14, 2024 × The legislation pitched by the ruling Georgian Dream party threatens the country’s bid to join the European Union. A report by Reuters citing a poll also said that Georgia’s 3.7 million people back EU accession. So far, the United States, Britain, Germany, Italy and France have urged Georgia to withdraw the bill. Baltic, Iceland ministers head to Georgia On Tuesday, ministers from the countries in the Baltics and Iceland said they would head to Georgia to urge Tbilisi to scrap the bill warning that it will derail the ex-Soviet republic’s chances of joining the EU, Lithuania’s top diplomat told AFP. Also Read | Georgia parliament backs ‘foreign agent’ bill second reading amid protests The bill is “incompatible with the country’s pro-European direction,” Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis told the news agency. He added, “Today, we are travelling to Georgia with the Icelandic, Estonian and Latvian (foreign) ministers to express our concerns to politicians and meet with civil society.” On Wednesday, the ministers plan to meet the Georgian president as well as the head of the parliament and the foreign minister and are also expected to join thousands of people protesting the law. (With inputs from agencies)

Georgia adopts controversial ‘foreign agents’ law amid brawls and protests

Despite thousands of protesters opposing the controversial bill on Foreign Agents, Georgia's Prime Minister has vowed to pass the legislation through Parliament today. Watch in for more details!

Georgia Protests: Will Georgia pass foreign agents bill today?

Thousands of protesters marched through Georgia's Central Tbilisi at a rally against a controversial foreign influence bill. Now protesters have likened the bill to Russian laws silencing dissent.

Georgia: Protest march through Tbilisi against 'foreign influence' bill

It seems that the year of Elections has also brought with it a year of protests mass rallies and demonstrations have become a common sight across the world and Georgia is no exception. At the epicenter of the marches is this transcontinental country it's a Foreign Agents Bill, protesters and thousands took to the streets again this week as lawmakers resume debate on a foreign agents law.

Georgia: Thousands rally against 'Foreign Agent' bill

It seems that the year of Elections has also brought with it a year of protests Mass rallies and demonstrations have become a common sight across the world and Georgia is no exception. At the epicenter of the marches is this transcontinental country it's a foreign agent Bill protesters and thousands took to the streets again this week as lawmakers resume debate on a foreign agents law.

Thousands protest in Georgia against ‘foreign agents’ bill

Thousands of Georgians marched through the capital, Tbilisi, on Sunday, as protests built against a bill on "foreign agents" that the country's opposition and Western countries have said is authoritarian and Russian-inspired.

While the Georgian parliamentarians began to read the Foreign Agents Bill more than 5,000 protesters gathered outside the building. WION tells you why the bill is being called "Russian" in nature.

Protests rocks Georgia: What is Georgia's 'Foreign Agents' bill?

Georgia's ruling party has been forced to withdraw its controversial 'foreign agents' bill after people took to the streets in a protests against it in the capital. Watch this report to know further.

Georgia withdraws 'foreign agents' bill after two days of protests

Georgia has decided to drop the bill on "foreign agents" following heavy protests and demonstrations against it for two nights. Opponents of the bill said that it was inspired by Russia's authoritarian shift and put in jeopardy hopes of the country joining the European Union.

The Georgian Dream ruling party in a statement said it will "unconditionally withdraw the bill we supported without any reservations". The party said the decision to withdraw the bill was based on the need to reduce "confrontation" in society. However, it categorically denounced "lies" told about the bill by the "radical opposition".

Meanwhile, the opposition parties said that they will continue to protest against the bill.&nbsp;Giga Lemonjala, a representative of the Droa party, said until the government formally denounces the "foreign agents" bill&nbsp;and releases&nbsp;all those detained, the protests against the bill will continue.

The European Union's delegation to&nbsp;Georgia&nbsp;praised the decision to pull back the bill.&nbsp;"We welcome announcement by the ruling party to withdraw draft legislation on 'foreign influence'," it wrote on Twitter.

We encourage all political leaders in&nbsp;Georgia&nbsp;to resume pro-EU reforms, in an inclusive &amp; constructive way".

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The "foreign agents" bill would have required Georgian organisations that received more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as "foreign agents" or face fines. Georgian Dream had previously said the law was necessary to unmask critics of the Georgian Orthodox Church, one of the country's most powerful institutions.

Massive protests around the Georgian parliament

The draft law got&nbsp;initial approval on Tuesday, after which&nbsp;tens of thousands of protesters&nbsp;gathered outside the parliament and also the next day. They hurled petrol bombs, stones and plastic bottles at police.&nbsp;

A window of the parliament building was also broken and a police car was overturned. At least 77 people were arrested after the police used tear gas, stun grenades and water cannon to disperse the crowds.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Georgia has decided to drop the bill on "foreign agents" following heavy protests and demonstrations against it for two nights. Opponents of the bill said that it was inspired by Russia's authoritarian shift and put in jeopardy hopes of the country joining the European Union.

Georgia has decided to drop the bill on "foreign agents" following heavy protests and demonstrations against it for two nights. Opponents of the bill said that it was inspired by Russia's authoritarian shift and put in jeopardy hopes of the country joining the European Union. The Georgian Dream ruling party in a statement said it will "unconditionally withdraw the bill we supported without any reservations". The party said the decision to withdraw the bill was based on the need to reduce "confrontation" in society. However, it categorically denounced "lies" told about the bill by the "radical opposition". Meanwhile, the opposition parties said that they will continue to protest against the bill. Giga Lemonjala, a representative of the Droa party, said until the government formally denounces the "foreign agents" bill and releases all those detained, the protests against the bill will continue. The European Union's delegation to Georgia praised the decision to pull back the bill. "We welcome announcement by the ruling party to withdraw draft legislation on 'foreign influence'," it wrote on Twitter. We encourage all political leaders in Georgia to resume pro-EU reforms, in an inclusive & constructive way". × The "foreign agents" bill would have required Georgian organisations that received more than 20 per cent of their funding from abroad to register as "foreign agents" or face fines. Georgian Dream had previously said the law was necessary to unmask critics of the Georgian Orthodox Church, one of the country's most powerful institutions. Massive protests around the Georgian parliament The draft law got initial approval on Tuesday, after which tens of thousands of protesters gathered outside the parliament and also the next day. They hurled petrol bombs, stones and plastic bottles at police. A window of the parliament building was also broken and a police car was overturned. At least 77 people were arrested after the police used tear gas, stun grenades and water cannon to disperse the crowds. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Massive protests force Georgia to drop the 'foreign agents' bill