Controversial Law Restricting LGBTQIA+ Rights in Georgia
The President of the Georgian Parliament announced on October 3 that he had enacted a law limiting the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals, despite the President of the country refusing to sign the text. The ruling party, led by billionaire Bidzina Ivanichvili, had passed this legislation in September, but the pro-European President Zourabichvili did not endorse it. This law, similar to the one in Russia, has faced criticism from the EU and human rights organizations.
Political Tensions Amidst Legislation
As Georgia approaches its parliamentary elections on October 26, tensions are rising between the ruling conservative party with pro-Russian leanings and the pro-Western opposition. Despite Georgia’s aspirations to join NATO and the EU, recent controversial laws have strained relations with Western countries. The newly enacted law prohibits the promotion of homosexual relations and incest in educational institutions and media, while also restricting gatherings and demonstrations.
International Concern and Critiques
Rights groups have condemned the law for equating homosexuality with incest and curbing freedom of assembly. The EU has raised concerns that the legislation undermines the fundamental rights of Georgian citizens and could lead to increased discrimination. This is not the first time Georgia has faced backlash over laws resembling those in Russia, with a previous law against “foreign influence” also stirring massive protests earlier in the year. Despite Western criticism, the government has stood by its decisions.
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