Georgian lawmakers have passed the final reading of a controversial law aimed at “family values and the protection of minors,” which imposes broad restrictions on LGBTQ rights.
Approved on Tuesday, the bill, introduced earlier this year by the ruling Georgian Dream party, enforces bans on same-sex marriage, adoption by same-sex couples, gender-affirming care, public endorsements of LGBTQ+ relationships, and media representations of LGBTQ+ individuals.
The legislation also prohibits Pride events, public displays of the rainbow flag, and their depiction in films and books.
Leaders of Georgian Dream argue that the law is essential for upholding traditional moral values in the country.
Tamara Jakeli, director of the advocacy group Tbilisi Pride, expressed concern that the bill, which reinforces a current ban on same-sex marriage and prohibits gender reassignment surgery, may force her organization to shut down. “This law is the most devastating development for the LGBTQ community in Georgia,” Jakeli, 28, told Reuters. “We will likely have to close. There seems to be no way for us to continue operating.”
LGBTQ+ rights remain a contentious issue in Georgia, with widespread disapproval of same-sex relationships and frequent violent attacks on Pride marches. The country’s constitution already prohibits same-sex marriage.
Although President Salome Zourabichvili has reportedly vowed to veto the bill, the government’s strong parliamentary majority could override her decision.
By passing this law, Georgia aligns itself more closely with Russia, even as it continues to seek EU membership ahead of October’s elections.
