Georgian politicians have approved a controversial bill on “family values and the protection of minors” despite strong opposition from the president, rights groups, and the European Union. The bill, which imposes severe restrictions on LGBTQ rights, would allow authorities to ban Pride events and public displays of the rainbow flag, as well as censor films and books. It also prohibits gender transition, adoption by LGBTQ individuals, and nullifies same-sex marriages performed abroad in Georgia.
The ruling Georgian Dream party, citing the need to uphold “traditional moral standards,” pushed for the bill’s passage. However, critics such as Tbilisi Pride director Tamara Jakeli warn that the legislation will have devastating consequences for the LGBTQ community in Georgia.
President Salome Zourabichvili has expressed opposition to the bill but may be overruled by Georgian Dream’s parliamentary majority. The party, led by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, has positioned itself against LGBTQ rights ahead of the upcoming election, deepening ties with Russia and adopting authoritarian measures that have sparked protests.
The European Union has condemned the bill’s adoption, warning that it could jeopardize Georgia’s European integration aspirations and strain EU-Georgia relations. Despite this backlash, Georgian Dream remains popular among voters, though its shift towards conservative policies has raised concerns about human rights and democratic values in the country.
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