Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili has threatened to crack down on protesters – announcing plans to create a database of those he says are “involved in violence, illegal activities, intimidation and blackmail or approve of such behavior.”
The database would be published online to name and shame those accused of transgressions. Critics see it as yet another measure aimed at discrediting opponents of the government.
Georgian Dream did not respond to repeated requests for comment.
On Tuesday, as the Georgian parliament voted on the bill by 84 votes to 30, thousands of people gathered outside the parliament in central Tbilisi to drown out the proceedings with a chorus of whistles, vuvuzelas and bangs. pots and pans. Riot police dispersed the crowd using water cannons and a sonic weapon. Authorities arrested dozens, deploying tear gas against peaceful protesters, and were accused of beating detainees.
On the sidelines of the rally, several masked men in black accosted journalists and passers-by, taking photos of those present with the apparent aim of intimidating them. Asked by POLITICO to identify themselves and explain their side of the debate, they remained silent and continued to photograph the participants.
Georgian Dream has been warned by its US and European partners that passing the bill would harm Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations.
US State Department Deputy Secretary Jim O’Brien warned of possible sanctions after Tuesday’s vote.
“If the law is passed, not in line with EU standards, and democracy is undermined here, and there is violence against peaceful protesters, then we will see restrictions coming from the United States. These typically include financial restrictions and travel restrictions for individuals. responsible for these acts and their families.
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