Georgia passes law banning LGBTQ "propaganda", same-sex marriage and adoption

Georgia passes law banning LGBTQ

A Georgian Pride rally. / bne IntelliNews

By bne IntelliNews September 18, 2024

Georgia’s parliament has passed at third reading a legislative package introduced by the ruling Georgian Dream party that bans “LGBT propaganda,” same-sex marriage and adoption, and gender-affirming treatments.

The controversial package, adopted with 84 votes in favor and none against, includes a primary law and 18 related measures affecting various areas such as healthcare, education, and media.

Among the changes is a prohibition on public gatherings or demonstrations "promoting non-traditional sexual orientations". Media outlets are also barred from airing content "promoting LGBTQ relationships".

Civil society groups and opposition parties have heavily criticized the legislation, accusing Georgian Dream of using the bill to stoke fear and rally support ahead of parliamentary elections on 26 October.

Critics argue that the bill goes far beyond what the ruling party claims is necessary to protect children and family values. They say it establishes legal grounds for broader restrictions on fundamental freedoms and targets LGBTQ people for political gain.

Human rights advocates have also warned that this law could serve as a precedent for future repression against other groups.

The EU’s chief foreign affairs spokesperson, Peter Stano, expressed deep concern about the bill’s rushed process, stating that it undermines the rights of Georgian citizens and could worsen the discrimination faced by LGBTQ individuals. The EU further highlighted that the legislation risks Georgia’s EU integration prospects.

More than 30 civil society organizations have urged President Salome Zourabichvili to veto the bill. They warn that this law legalizes hate and censorship, and that it could pave the way for further governmental overreach.

Public Defender Levan Ioseliani has also been called upon to take the legislation to court.

The package is part of a broader effort by the government to tighten its control over public discourse, and its impact could be far-reaching, particularly in the education system, where LGBTQ topics will now be strictly censored.

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