Georgia tightens restrictions on protest rallies

PanARMENIAN.Net - Georgia’s ruling party, Georgian Dream, is rapidly advancing legal amendments that further restrict freedom of assembly and expression.

According to Radio Free Europe’s Georgian service, the legislation introduces the concept of a "spontaneous demonstration," defined as "a gathering or rally organized unexpectedly and immediately in response to a significant public event that could not have been predicted."

Under the Law on Assemblies and Demonstrations, organizers must notify the authorities in advance if an event is held on a roadway or disrupts traffic. Such notification must be submitted at least five days before the event.

Additionally, amendments to the Administrative Offenses Code increase fines for violations. Previously, the fine was 500 lari, but it has now risen to 2,000 lari.

For organizers, the fine for a first-time offense remains 5,000 lari.