New restrictions on LGBTQ rights in Georgia raise alarm

Georgia has recently implemented a contentious law that imposes significant limitations on LGBTQ rights, eliciting strong criticism from both national and international observers. This legislative action, which resembles similar measures in Russia, has raised concerns regarding the nation’s dedication to human rights and its ambitions for European Union membership.

On October 3, 2024, Shalva Papuashvili, the Speaker of the Georgian Parliament, enacted the bill titled “On Family Values and the Protection of Minors.” This legislation had previously been vetoed by President Salome Zurabishvili, who has conflicted with the ruling Georgian Dream party. The law prohibits gender reassignment and nullifies same-sex marriages performed either abroad or within Georgia, closely paralleling Moscow’s infamous “gay propaganda” law.

Key provisions of the law

Prohibition of Same-Sex Marriage: It explicitly forbids the recognition of same-sex marriages, including those conducted outside the country.

Restrictions on Gender Reassignment: The law prohibits gender reassignment surgeries and the legal alteration of gender on official documents.

Limitations on Adoption: Same-sex couples are not permitted to adopt children.

Censorship of LGBTQ Content: The legislation prohibits the promotion of LGBTQ rights and relationships in educational settings, media, and public events. It specifically bans any content that encourages identification with a gender different from one’s biological sex or same-sex relationships.

Prohibition of Public Displays: Pride events and displaying LGBTQ symbols, such as the rainbow flag, are prohibited.

Establishment of a New Public Holiday: May 17th has been designated a public holiday to celebrate “family sanctity,” in opposition to the International Day Against Homophobia.

Papuashvili defended the legislation, claiming it is based on “common sense, historical experience, and centuries-old Christian, Georgian, and European values.” He asserted that it safeguards the rights of all citizens, despite widespread rebuke from human rights organizations and Western nations.

The enactment of this law occurs against a troubling backdrop for LGBTQ rights in Georgia. Just weeks before its passage, a prominent transgender woman was murdered in Tbilisi, underscoring the rising violence against LGBTQ individuals in the country. This incident has heightened concerns that the new law will further jeopardize the safety of vulnerable communities.

The ruling Georgian Dream party has been accused of increasingly aligning with Russian interests, particularly following the recent introduction of an anti-NGO “foreign influence law.” This legislation has incited significant public protests and has been condemned by Western governments. Critics contend that such actions threaten Georgia’s aspirations for EU membership by undermining democratic principles and human rights protections.

The European Union has conveyed significant disapproval regarding Georgia’s recent legislation, characterizing it as “queerphobic.” The EU’s apprehensions stem from the view that this law not only discriminates against LGBTQ individuals but also signifies a troubling shift towards authoritarianism in Georgian political practices. Additionally, the Council of Europe has raised concerns about Georgia’s track record on LGBTQ rights, underscoring the necessity for thorough investigations into incidents of homophobic violence and discrimination.

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