Associated Press

The new law, introduced by the ruling Georgian Dream party, bans gender transitions, same-sex marriages, adoptions by same-sex couples, and public endorsement of LGBTQ+ relations and people in the media.

Critics argue that the legislation mirrors similar laws adopted in neighboring Russia and is an attempt by Georgian Dream to boost support among conservative voters ahead of the October 26 parliamentary election.

The law has drawn criticism from Western countries and human rights advocates, who view it as part of a turn towards authoritarianism and alignment with Russia in a country that had previously leaned towards the West since the breakup of the Soviet Union.

Georgian Dream, founded by the country's richest man, remains the most popular single party against a divided opposition, though it has lost ground since 2020 when it won almost 50% of the vote.

The passage of this law follows the adoption of a "foreign influence" law earlier this year, which requires media and nongovernmental organizations to register as "pursuing the interests of a foreign power" if they receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad, further straining Georgia's relations with the West.

Anti-LGBTQ Legislation in Georgian Parliament - 1199611781

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This anti-LGBTQ+ law further marginalizes an already vulnerable community and could lead to increased violence against LGBTQ+ individuals. It's a cynical attempt by the ruling party to shore up support among conservative groups at the expense of human rights and Georgia's European aspirations.

Georgian parliament speaker signs anti-LGBTQ law after president refuses to sign it

Georgia Enacts Controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ Law

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Georgia Enacts Controversial Anti-LGBTQ+ Law

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