Georgian lawmakers have approved a controversial law on “family values and the protection of minors” that severely restricts LGBTQ rights in the country. The bill would allow authorities to ban Pride events, displays of the LGBT rainbow flag, as well as censor films and books. The ruling Georgian Dream party argues that the law is necessary to preserve traditional moral standards in Georgia, where the Orthodox Church wields significant influence.
Activists, including the director of Tbilisi Pride, Tamara Jakeli, fear that the law will force their organizations to shut down and view it as a major setback for the LGBT community in Georgia. President Salome Zourabichvili, who has criticized Georgian Dream, has indicated that she will veto the bill, but the ruling party has enough support in parliament to override her.
The issue of LGBT rights has become a central theme in the upcoming parliamentary election on October 26, with Georgian Dream campaigning against such rights to consolidate conservative support. The party has deepened ties with Russia, causing concern among Western governments and sparking protests against its authoritarian-leaning laws.
Despite its popularity, Georgian Dream has faced criticism for its recent authoritarian laws and pivot towards conservative positions. The future of LGBT rights in Georgia hinges on the outcome of the election, with activists calling for a change in government to promote progress in this area.
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