Georgian parliament speaker signs law curbing LGBT rights
NBCSEP 20 2024
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.
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.