Georgian Parliament approves stricter penalties for violations of assembly, manifestation rules

The Georgian Parliament on Thursday adopted amendments to the Criminal Code that tighten liability for violations of the rules governing assemblies and manifestations.

The bill passed its third reading with the support of 80 MPs, according to an official statement released by the Parliament of Georgia.

The amendments were presented to the plenary session by Archil Gorduladze, the Chair of the Legal Affairs Committee.

According to the proposed legislation, participants in assemblies or demonstrations who cover their faces with masks, possess tear gas or toxic substances, block roads, or erect temporary constructions will face administrative detention of up to 15 days for a first offense.

If the offender is an organiser of the demonstration, the detention may extend to 20 days.

For individuals to whom administrative detention cannot be applied, the law sets a fine of 5,000 GEL, while organizers will face a 15,000 GEL fine.

Furthermore, participation in an assembly or demonstration that violates legal requirements and is ordered to be terminated by the Ministry of Internal Affairs - or carrying weapons or objects that could endanger human health during a protest - will result in up to 60 days of imprisonment.