A heated debate over a bill requiring NGOs and media to register as foreign agents in Georgia escalated into a physical altercation between lawmakers, reflecting deeper political and social tensions.
In a recent incident at the Georgian parliament, Mamuka Mdinaradze, a member of parliament from the ruling Georgian Dream party, was punched by opposition MP Aleko Elisashvili. The confrontation occurred during a parliamentary session discussing a contentious bill, which requires non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and media outlets that receive over 20% of their funding from foreign sources to register as “foreign agents.” The altercation, broadcasted on television, turned into a brawl among lawmakers.
The proposed legislation has stirred significant controversy and backlash, both domestically and internationally. Critics argue it mimics Russian laws and could restrict freedom of speech and hamper Georgia’s aspirations to join the European Union and NATO. Supporters of the bill, led by the Georgian Dream party, argue that the law is intended to ensure financial transparency and prevent foreign interference.
The reintroduction of the bill by Georgian Dream, despite its earlier withdrawal due to public protests, has sparked further demonstrations in Tbilisi. People are protesting what they perceive as a move to limit critical voices and dissent in the country. The incident and ongoing debates occur amidst a backdrop of strained relations with Russia, particularly regarding the breakaway regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and as Georgia positions itself for upcoming elections, with recent polls suggesting diminishing support for Georgian Dream since their narrow 2020 victory.
