In recent years, Georgia has faced significant political and social upheaval, reflecting its complex geopolitical position and aspirations towards European integration. The country’s tumultuous journey towards democracy has been marked by political instability, corruption, and intermittent conflicts, most notably the 2008 Georgian-Russian war. This conflict, initiated on August 7, 2008, saw Georgia attempting to reclaim control over the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, which had declared independence in the early 1990s with Russian support. The war was brief but devastating, resulting in a decisive Russian military victory, substantial loss of life, and the displacement of tens of thousands of Georgians. The aftermath solidified Russia’s influence in the disputed territories and significantly strained Georgia’s relations with Russia.
Fast forward to the present day, the geopolitical tensions have only intensified, especially in the context of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine launched in February 2022. This invasion has had a profound impact on the region, including Georgia, which has seen a resurgence of civil society activism and public demonstrations. In March 2023, the Georgian Parliament approved the draft law “On transparency of foreign influence” in its first reading. The law, modelled after Russia’s 2012 “law of agents of foreign influence,” mandates that media and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) receiving over 20% of their funding from abroad must register as “organisations acting in the interest of a foreign power” and submit to stringent audits or face punitive fines.
The approval of this draft law sparked widespread protests. On March 7, 2023, during the initial demonstrations, dozens of citizens were injured, with one activist losing sight in one eye. Despite the parliamentary majority’s attempts to downplay the law as provocative, public and international backlash forced the Georgian Dream party to withdraw it temporarily.
Over a year after this withdrawal, the Georgian Dream parliamentary majority reintroduced the modified draft law, claiming it had been softened. However, critics argue that it remains a destructive measure for Georgian society and NGOs, echoing the repressive Russian law. On April 4, 2024, civil activists and opposition parties gathered in front of the parliament to protest the government’s decision, initiating continuous demonstrations that have lasted for over a month. Seven opposition parties released a statement condemning the law as a betrayal of Georgia’s European path, warning that its adoption would severely damage Georgia’s chances of joining the European Union and NATO.
The protests have been met with violent crackdowns by special forces using pepper spray, water cannons, and tear gas. Dozens of protesters and opposition figures have been arrested and physically assaulted. Despite these measures, the protests have persisted, driven by a commitment to democratic values and European integration.
On May 14, 2024, the Georgian Parliament adopted the controversial law in its final reading, with 84 MPs voting in favour and 30 against. University students and lecturers went on strike in response. President Salome Zourabishvili vetoed the law on May 18, describing it as inherently Russian and contradictory to Georgia’s constitution and European standards. However, the parliamentary majority swiftly moved to override the veto.
On May 28, 2024, the Parliament successfully overturned the veto. The law is expected to come into force in 60 days, obliging organisations to comply or face fines. The EU has expressed deep regret, and the US State Department has warned of travel restrictions for those undermining democracy in Georgia. Nonetheless, Georgian authorities have dismissed these concerns, with Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze asserting no trade-off against national interests.
President Zourabishvili, acknowledging her limited options, proposed a new charter aimed at moving Georgia towards Europe, including significant reforms to depoliticize the justice system and security services. She has invited all opposition parties to unite for the October parliamentary elections.
As protests continue, many Georgians, particularly the youth, remain determined to oppose the law, viewing it as a critical battle for the nation’s future and its European aspirations. This moment marks a pivotal point in Georgia’s ongoing struggle between maintaining democratic values and contending with increasing authoritarian pressures.
Irakli Thakalandze
Irakli Takalandze is a political science researcher from Georgia with a focus on current political processes, youth engagement, and fact-checking misinformation. He holds a Bachelor's in Political Science and a Master's in Public Relations, both from Ilia State University. Additionally, he studied International Relations at the University of Glasgow as an exchange student.
Throughout his career, Irakli has collaborated with various NGOs, contributing significantly to their projects. He has served as a Social Media Monitor for ISFED and as a Myth Detector for MDF. His other roles include Regional Development Director and PR & Communications Coordinator for Georgia's Future Academy, and Fundraising Manager for Girchi More Freedom.
Irakli's academic and professional background equips him to deliver insightful journalism. His work makes him a prominent voice in Georgian media, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of information.
