Georgia faces intense state pressure through restrictive laws targeting protests, civil society, opposition, and media freedom.
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Protests in Georgia, which began on November 28, 2024, against the suspension of EU accession talks by the new government, have continued despite harsh repression. Protesters have used various methods, including marches and sit-ins, while authorities have responded with tear gas and water cannons, leading to injuries and accusations of mistreatment. The government has passed restrictive laws, including amendments to protest laws, which impose severe penalties for participants and organizers. The civil society sector is deteriorating due to punitive legislation, such as the “foreign agent” law, which mandates registration and public disclosure of foreign funding, alongside restrictions on international grants. Opposition parties are also facing legal challenges, including arrests and limitations on public office holding. Media freedom is threatened by multiple laws, including those restricting foreign funding for broadcasters and weakening professional secrecy, while the state apparatus is being consolidated under the ruling party, weakening independent public administration bodies.
