Georgian politicians have passed a controversial bill on “family values and the protection of minors” despite opposition from the president, rights groups, and the European Union. The bill imposes strict limits on LGBTQ rights, including banning Pride events, same-sex adoption, and gender transition. It also nullifies same-sex marriages performed abroad on Georgian territory. The ruling Georgian Dream party argues that the law is necessary to preserve “traditional moral standards” in the deeply conservative country, where the Orthodox Church wields significant influence. However, critics, including Tbilisi Pride director Tamara Jakeli, say the law will have devastating effects on the LGBTQ community in Georgia. President Salome Zourabichvili has indicated she will block the bill, but Georgian Dream has enough support in parliament to override her veto.
The issue of LGBTQ rights has become a key campaign issue ahead of the upcoming October 26 election, with Georgian Dream campaigning heavily against such rights. The party, led by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, has deepened ties with Russia as relations with Western countries have deteriorated. The passage of the bill comes after the controversial “foreign agents” law earlier this year, which prompted large protests. The European Union has expressed concerns over the bill’s adoption, warning that it could impact Georgia’s path to EU integration. Despite the criticism, opinion polls suggest that Georgian Dream remains popular in the country. However, the passage of the bill has drawn international condemnation and raised questions about Georgia’s democratic values and commitment to European integration.
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