Amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses are being rapidly introduced in Georgia, increasing penalties for protesters. The initiator of the legislative changes was the ruling Georgian Dream party.
According to the amendments, if a person held liable under articles on petty hooliganism (166), disobeying the lawful demands of a police officer (173), insulting an official (173¹⁶), blocking a road, and violating the procedure for holding a rally or demonstration (174¹) does not pay the fine, then in the event of a repeat offense, he or she will face administrative arrest. Exceptions are provided only for pregnant women, mothers of children under 12, minors, and persons with severe or significantly limited health capabilities.
The amendments to the Code will come into force after they are adopted by the Parliament of Georgia in three readings, signed by the President and published on the website of the country's legislative gazette.
