GENEVA: The United Nations rights chief, Volker Turk, on Thursday urged Georgia’s government to withdraw a controversial “foreign influence” bill going through parliament and expressed concern at police violence against protesters.
The statement follows escalating protests against the proposed legislation, with critics alleging that it aims to stifle dissent and limit freedom of expression.
Georgia’s parliament recently passed the draft law on its second reading, prompting Turk to express his concerns regarding its potential impact. The bill, if enacted, would mandate that any independent non-governmental organization (NGO) or media outlet receiving more than 20 percent of its funding from abroad register as an “organisation pursuing the interests of a foreign power.”
In his statement, Turk emphasized the importance of preserving the rights to freedom of expression and association. He cautioned against the labeling of NGOs and media organizations as serving foreign interests. He urged the Georgian authorities to engage in dialogue with civil society and media groups and to reconsider the proposed legislation.
The unrest in Georgia erupted on April 9, following the reintroduction of plans by the ruling Georgian Dream party to pass the controversial law. Demonstrators have taken to the streets in mass protests, denouncing the bill and demanding its withdrawal.
The situation escalated earlier this week when police forcefully dispersed a demonstration against the bill, resorting to tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and physical violence. Scores of protesters and members of the media were reportedly beaten, arrested, and detained.
Turk expressed concern over the reports of excessive use of force by law enforcement and called for a thorough investigation into allegations of mistreatment during protests and in detention. He demanded the immediate release of persons detained arbitrarily for exercising their rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
