**Georgia Bans Masks and Fireworks at Protests**
The Georgian parliament has passed a law banning the wearing of masks, using lasers and fireworks during protests. The new law was approved on December 13.
This move is in response to recent protests against election vote rigging and the country’s decision to delay joining the European Union until 2028.
**Heavy Fines for Non-Compliance**
The fine for breaking this rule will be 2,000 Georgian lari (around $712). The police will decide who can wear masks at protests. This could include people like doctors or firefighters who need to cover their faces for work.
**Why It Matters**
Masks are not only worn by protesters but also by some police officers and pro-government groups that have attacked demonstrators in the past. By banning masks, the government may be trying to stop these groups from hiding their identities.
**Similar Laws Were Passed Before**
Similar laws were passed in Ukraine during the EuroMaidan Revolution in 2014. These laws led to more clashes between protesters and police and were eventually repealed before the president was overthrown. The new Georgian law also includes stricter rules for selling fireworks.
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