Georgia has been rocked by protests over a new “foreign agents bill” that requires organizations receiving over 20 percent of their funding from overseas to register as agents of foreign influence. Critics fear this law, similar to Russia’s, could stifle free speech and tilt Georgia towards Russia, potentially hindering their chance at European Union membership. The ruling Georgian Dream party argues the law is necessary for transparency and to protect the country from foreign manipulation.
Protests have been fueled by concerns among the Western-leaning younger generation that the government is aligning with Russia. The upcoming elections in October will be a crucial turning point, with voters deciding between re-electing Georgian Dream for a fourth term or bringing in an opposition party. The ruling party has strong support among older Georgians, while the protesters are mostly young.
There is a growing generational divide in Georgia, with younger activists pushing for greater involvement with the EU and distancing from Russia. The government, on the other hand, accuses the opposition of succumbing to Western narratives that threaten traditional values. The issue has brought discussions about the country’s future to the forefront, with tensions high ahead of the upcoming elections. Ultimately, the fate of Georgia’s political direction will rest in the hands of its voters.
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