NewsGeorgia's Turmoil: Brutal Detentions and Controversial Law Spark Massive Protests
Georgia's Turmoil: Brutal Detentions and Controversial Law Spark Massive Protests
12:16 PM EDT, May 13, 2024
A security forces unit in Georgia was reported to have brutally beaten a detained protester. The individual was subjected to a so-called "corridor" ordeal, in which he was kicked and beaten while being led to a police car.
The recently introduced law on transparency of foreign influences, also known as the "foreign agents law," is causing a stir in the capital of Georgia. Its provisions are similar to those of a law already implemented in Russia.
It is noteworthy that, under this Russian law, the government can arbitrarily alter the operating hours of certain organizations during "anti-terrorist and other" operations outside the country. Additionally, it can prevent companies from participating in public procurement processes.
A news service report by newsgeorgia.ge stated that there were at least 200,000 demonstrators, with the number likely exceeding 300,000 throughout the day.
The "foreign agents" law stipulates that anyone under "foreign influence" may be designated a foreign agent. Those labelled as "foreign agents" face restrictions, such as being banned from teaching in public educational institutions, engaging in state-funded activities, and participating in public procurement. The exact definition of "foreign influence" remains vague.
Police brutality against a suspect
The protests persisted into Monday, during which the security forces in Georgia displayed a lack of restraint, detaining about 20 individuals, including foreigners.
A brief video circulating on social media captures a unit of Georgia's security forces in the act of brutally beating a detained protester. He is shown being subjected to the "corridor" treatment, receiving kicks and blows on his way to the police vehicle.
