Parliament approved the tightening of rules related to assemblies and demonstrations, along with stricter administrative and criminal liabilities, in the third reading.

The legislative package, initiated by MPs from "Georgian Dream," was reviewed and passed under an expedited procedure within two plenary sessions.

According to the package, the concept of spontaneous gatherings/demonstrations is defined, and prior written notification to local authorities becomes mandatory for such gatherings.

The entity responsible for enforcing regulations on assemblies and demonstrations is changed, granting it the authority to oversee the exercise of assembly and demonstration rights.

Regulations on the removal of temporary constructions are introduced.

Holding assemblies or demonstrations in enclosed spaces/buildings without the owner’s prior written consent is prohibited. Additionally, blocking building entrances, highways, bridges, tunnels, overpasses, designated municipal transport hubs, and railways during protests is banned.

The maximum administrative detention period is increased from 15 to 60 days.

For minor hooliganism, such as public swearing or offensive behavior toward citizens, penalties increase from the previous fine of 500–1,000 GEL or up to 15 days of detention to a fine of 500–3,000 GEL or up to 20 days of detention. A repeated offense, instead of a 1,500–2,000 GEL fine or 5–15 days of detention, will now result in a fine of 3,000–5,000 GEL or 5–60 days of detention.

For repeated vandalism, instead of a 2,000 GEL fine or up to 5 days of detention, offenders will still face a 2,000 GEL fine but could be detained for up to 20 days.

Under the amendments, verbally insulting, swearing at, or making offensive remarks toward law enforcement officers, military personnel, State Security Service employees, enforcement police officers, penitentiary service officers, or officials from the Ministry of Justice’s General Inspection and related agencies while they are performing their duties will result in a fine of 2,000–5,000 GEL or up to 60 days of administrative detention.

Additionally, verbal insults or other offensive actions against state-political officials, political officeholders, civil servants, or public servants will be subject to administrative liability.

Under the planned amendments to the "Code of Administrative Offenses," such actions will result in a fine of 1,500–4,000 GEL or up to 45 days of administrative detention.

Furthermore, if an individual previously penalized for this offense repeats it, they will face a fine of 2,500–6,000 GEL or administrative detention ranging from 5 to 60 days.

The legislation also includes the revocation of firearm-carrying rights for up to three years for those found guilty of insulting political officials or civil servants.