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In the shadow of the war in Gaza and Ukraine, a drama is unfolding in Georgia. The country may be heading for a popular uprising similar to that seen in Ukraine in the winter of 2013-14. The reason for the conflict is that the ruling party has introduced a law banning so-called foreign agents. A similar law to what Russia has. Those in power in Georgia are out of step with the people. Those in power want to bring Georgia closer to Russia, while the people want to look west towards the EU. The similarities between what is happening in Georgia and the drama that unfolded on Maidan Square in Kyiv in the winter of 2013-14 are striking. A popular uprising is underway.

An uprising in Russia’s sphere

Another popular uprising against bringing a former Soviet state closer to Russia is underway. We have seen Russia crack down brutally and harshly on such uprisings in the past. We saw it in Ukraine, we saw it in Belarus and we might see it in Georgia now.

The will of the people clearly doesn’t count for anything. It is Russia’s sphere that must be maintained at all costs. The people’s desire to look towards Europe and democracy is crushed by the self-interest of those in power. Such a law is not compatible with the ideals of the EU. Russia knows it, the powers that be in Georgia know it and the people know it.

Change through choice?

Can’t the people change power in elections? Yes, in theory they can. The problem is that in reality there are no free democratic elections in Russia or its backyard. We have seen this in Belarus, Russia and a number of other former Soviet states.

The democratic forces in Georgia must not be forgotten. In the shadow of other wars, an important battle is unfolding on the eastern side of the Black Sea. The conflict is like the war in Ukraine. It’s a question of democracy or dictatorship. A question of the will of the people or the self-interest of those in power. My hope is that a rebellion in Georgia ends well and without people being killed.

Sources:

Georgia “Transparency of Foreign Influence” Draft Law – United States Department of State

Tens of thousands protest in Georgia as MPs pass contentious ‘foreign influence’ bill (france24.com)

Georgia not ready for EU, says ruling party – POLITICO