Police in Georgia have used tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon against tens of thousands of protesters outside parliament. Crowds are demonstrating against the government's so-called 'foreign influence' bill.

Tbilisi

In the Georgian capital, large protests erupted against the government's proposed "foreign influence" bill, drawing tens of thousands of demonstrators. These protests, far from subsiding, escalated as the crowd attempted to storm the parliament building and set up barricades. In response, law enforcement resorted to using tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons against the protesters. These measures were taken amid passionate declarations from protesters proclaiming their steadfast dedication to fighting for freedom, reflecting the high tensions and stakes perceived in this confrontation.

The contentious bill in question aims to introduce regulations on foreign interference, which has reached the stage of approval in its second reading within the parliament. Its progress comes amid stark warnings from its opponents, who argue that the law is reminiscent of Russian influence. They fear it would severely limit dissent by targeting human rights organizations and independent media. In contrast, the government maintains that the law is intended to bolster Georgia's sovereignty.

During the confrontations, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobahidze appealed to the police for patience in handling the protests, a call that seemed to contrast with the assertive police action witnessed. With a final confirmation of the bill anticipated in the coming weeks, the ongoing clashes underscore a deepening division within Georgian society. These developments signal a critical moment for the country, with significant implications for its direction in terms of governance and civil liberties.



Georgian lawmakers tussle in parliament

Opposition protests in the Georgian capital are not winding down, they're becoming more violent. Tens of thousands infuriated by a government proposal to introduce a law on foreign interference. They tried to break into parliament and erect barricades, while police responded with pepper spray and water cannons. I'm not afraid of water, I'm not afraid of gas, I'm not afraid of these people, because these people who are standing here, we are freedom fighters and we've been fighting for centuries for our freedom. Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobahidze called on police officers to show patience at the rallies. That patience wasn't on display. Parliament approved the law on foreign influence in the second reading. The third, final reading is expected in two weeks. While the governing party is trying to convince people that the law will strengthen the country's independence, the protesters say the law is inspired by Russia and is designed to crush dissent, allowing a crackdown on human rights groups and an independent media. One thing is certain, that these clashes will polarize Georgian society even further. Yulia Shapovalova, Al Jazeera, Tbilisi, Georgia.

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