Georgian lawmakers have approved a contentious law aimed at restricting LGBTQ+ rights under the guise of "family values and protecting minors." The law, which passed its final reading on Tuesday, was introduced earlier this year by the ruling Georgian Dream party.
Key provisions of the legislation include banning same-sex marriages, adoption by LGBTQ+ couples, and gender-affirming care. The bill also prohibits public displays of support for LGBTQ+ people, including the flying of rainbow flags and depictions of LGBTQ+ individuals in media. Furthermore, Pride events are now illegal under the new regulations.
Georgian Dream leaders argue that these measures are essential to safeguard the country’s traditional values. However, critics argue the law is a direct attack on the LGBTQ+ community. Tamara Jakeli, head of Tbilisi Pride, expressed her concern, stating, "This law is the most harmful development for the LGBTQ community in Georgia," and noted her organization's likely closure as a result.
Although Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili has vowed to block the bill, the government has enough parliamentary support to override her veto. The move marks a shift toward aligning Georgia more closely with Russia, despite its stated ambitions to join the European Union.
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