Western countries criticize the actions of the Georgian government

The European Union and the United States on Thursday condemned a “foreign agent” law being considered by Georgian lawmakers. On Thursday evening, Reuters reported from Tbilisi that thousands of citizens again blocked traffic in the capital, expressing disagreement with the bill being discussed.

Protesters poured into Heroes Square, a key intersection through which much of the traffic between the city’s districts passes. Cars formed long queues on the roads.

The bill, criticized by opponents as authoritarian and Kremlin-inspired, has passed two of three readings in parliament, with the latest comments reflecting concern in both Washington and Brussels about the future direction of the country, Reuters noted.

The ruling Georgian Dream party says the law, which will require organizations that receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as agents of foreign influence, is “necessary to ensure transparency.”

The party’s billionaire founder, Bidzina Ivanishvili, said this week that Georgia must defend its sovereignty from Western attempts to “dictate rules” to it.

The standoff between parts of society and Georgian lawmakers reflects a struggle that will likely determine whether Georgia can move closer to Europe or return to Moscow’s influence, independent media say.

European Commission Enlargement Director General Gert Jan Kopman repeated the EU’s warning that the law would jeopardize Georgia’s hopes of becoming a member of the European Union.

Great Britain, Italy, Germany and the United States also criticized the bill being discussed in Tbilisi. The White House on Thursday expressed concern about the negative impact the new law could have on Georgians’ ability and willingness to express their own aspirations.