Fines for Demonstrators Reach 2 Million GEL
The Georgian government has been heavily fining people who take part in demonstrations. According to the Georgian Young Lawyers Association, these fines have now reached 2 million Lari (GEL).
This is a big problem because it limits people’s freedom of assembly and expression. The government changed a law so that anyone blocking roads during a spontaneous demonstration can be fined up to 5,000 GEL.
The police are using special cameras to take pictures of people who take part in demonstrations. They use these photos as evidence against the people being charged. But many times, the context is ignored and the courts consider this enough proof.
Since November 2024, people have been fined over 2 million GEL for taking part in protests under this law. The Georgian Young Lawyers Association says that fining people for demonstrating is a serious violation of their rights.
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