Suppressing Dissent in Georgia

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The chapter explores the government's crackdown on civil society in Georgia through a new law that mirrors authoritarian practices, detailing the violent attacks on individuals opposing the legislation. It sheds light on the broader implications for Georgia's democracy and EU aspirations amidst suspicions of alignment with Russia. The narrative underscores the challenges faced by those speaking out against the law, including physical assaults, police interference, and the erosion of accountability.

The introduction laws cracking down on supposed foreign agents has become a common tactic for autocratic leaders. Activists in Georgia, who oppose the introduction of such a law, refer to theirs as “the Russian law”. They see it as moving their country closer to Putin, and away from the West.

Last week, as Georgia’s parliament prepared to vote on the law, Heidi Pett travelled to Tbilisi, the capital, to meet opposition leaders and find out why they are so afraid. What she discovered was a group being beaten, bruised, and left worried for their personal freedom—wondering, once the dust settles, what the day after tomorrow will bring.

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