Protesters are assembling in central Tbilisi in anticipation of the Parliament's upcoming vote on the contentious foreign influence legislation. Opponents of the bill, dubbing it a “Russian law,” argue that its passage could hinder the country’s EU integration and strain relations with key allies, including the US.

At the plenary session today, the President's motivated remarks on the bill will be voted on. If the veto is rejected, another vote on the draft law, which has passed three readings, will be necessary to override the veto, requiring at least 76 votes in favor. The parliamentary majority, which controls more than 80 votes, intends to override the veto, as stated by Chairman of the Parliament Shalva Papuashvili last week.

On May 23, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a policy of visa restrictions for those “undermining democracy” in Georgia, along with a comprehensive review of US-Georgia cooperation. Washington decided to impose visa restrictions on representatives of the Georgian Dream government and their family members, although no specific individuals have been named. 

The bill designates non-governmental and media organizations whose income exceeds 20 percent from abroad as entities serving the interests of a foreign power. They are required to register in a specialized registry and submit financial declarations annually, with failure resulting in a 25, 000 GEL fine upon first offense.

The opponents say their incomes are already transparent, accusing the authorities of taking actions to restrict and suppress critical voices. Thousands have protested against the law in Georgia since March, when the GD reintroduced the bill after its initial  rejection last year due to large-scale protests and a pledge not to propose it.