Georgia approves ‘Russian law’ in second reading while Brussels condemns police violence

This article was originally published in English

He Parliament Of Georgia It took another step on Wednesday to pass a law that critics fear will hamper press freedom and jeopardize the country’s independence. European Union (EU), while Police Water cannons, tear gas and pepper spray were used against thousands of protesters Due to which a crowd gathered on the surrounding roads.

83 out of 150 Georgia lawmakers approved the bill your second readingWhile 23 voted against. it takes one Third and final vote in parliament before it can become law, Georgian lawmaker Irakli Kobakhidze told reporters on Wednesday that he expected the final vote to be held mid may,

Dozens of people were arrested the night before and mass demonstrations have continued daily in the capital, Tbilisi. The protesters called this bill ‘Russian law‘ Because Moscow uses similar laws to tarnish independent media and organizations critical of the Kremlin.

Brussels condemns police violence

President of the European Commission, Ursula von der LeyenCondemned the police response to the ongoing protests in Georgia.

In a post on social networksmajor concern“, and added that “the Georgian people want european future For your country. Georgia is in one Crossroad, “It must remain on the path of Europe.”

The High Representative for Foreign Affairs of the European Union (EU) expressed similarly, josep borrellWho said on Wednesday that the use of force against protesters “unacceptable“As Georgia is a candidate country for the EU, I call on its authorities to guarantee the right to peaceful assembly,” he said.

The head of European diplomacy had previously criticized Georgian Dream’s decision to re-introduce the law, saying ” serious concernsaround freedom of the press in the country, which he called “crucial to the process.” joining the european union,

He ruling party Georgian Dream withdrew a similar proposal last year after major protests against the measure.

The law would require media outlets and nonprofit organizations to register “whom they follow.” interests of a foreign power“If they get More than 20% of financing from outside the national territory.

Critics of the measure consider it a hindering the accession process From Georgia to the European Union (EU).

The Interior Ministry gave this information 63 people were arrested Back tuesday protest, And as the protesters gathered once again WednesdayOpposition lawmaker Beka Liluashvili posted a live video from the parliament chamber showing MLAs are shouting and fighting with each other each other. One threw a stack of papers at the opponents. Others stopped their companions.

President of GeorgiaSalome Zourabichvili has strongly criticized the bill Have promised to veto this If it gets final approval from the Parliament. However, the ruling party can override veto And then the Speaker of Parliament can turn it into law.