On Tuesday, the Georgian parliament approved a new law that significantly curtails LGBTQ+ rights, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s ongoing debate over social issues. The bill, titled “Family Values and the Protection of Minors,” was passed in its third and final reading and introduced by the ruling Georgian Dream party.
The legislation enforces sweeping restrictions, including bans on same-sex marriages, adoption by same-sex couples, and gender-affirming medical treatments. It also outlaws Pride events and public displays of the rainbow flag, while mandating the censorship of LGBTQ+ content in media, films, and literature.
Supporters of the bill, including Georgian Dream leaders, argue that the law is necessary to preserve traditional moral values, a stance strongly influenced by Georgia’s conservative Orthodox Church. Critics, however, view it as a move to consolidate conservative support ahead of the parliamentary elections scheduled for October 26.
Tamara Jakeli, director of the advocacy group Tbilisi Pride, described the law as a severe blow to the LGBTQ+ community. “This law represents the most devastating setback for LGBTQ+ rights in Georgia,” Jakeli said. “It threatens to shut down our organization and silences our community.”
While President Salome Zourabichvili, who is known for her opposition to the Georgian Dream party, has signaled intentions to block the bill, her veto may be overridden due to the party’s strong majority in parliament.
The passage of this law comes as Georgia, which aspires to join the European Union, faces increasing scrutiny over its domestic policies. There are concerns that the country may be aligning itself more closely with Russia’s conservative stance, despite its Western integration goals.
Be First to Comment