The parliament has introduced a package of legislative changes targeting the so-called LGBT propaganda. These changes include amendments to the Administrative Offences Code and the Criminal Code, with a new article titled “Violation of the requirements provided by the law on family values and protection of minors” being added to both codes.
Under the proposed changes to the Administrative Offences Code, individuals who distribute advertisements promoting non-traditional gender identities, same-sex relationships, or incest will face fines ranging from 800 to 4,000 GEL. Legal entities will also be fined 2,500 GEL and have the object of the offence confiscated. Additionally, individuals who provide or share information to minors promoting non-traditional gender identities, same-sex relationships, or incest will face fines of 1,000 GEL, while legal entities will be fined 3,000 GEL and have the object of the offence confiscated.
The proposed changes also target educational institutions, with employees who disseminate information promoting non-traditional gender identities, same-sex relationships, or incest facing fines of 1,500 GEL and legal entities facing fines of 4,000 GEL. These fines will also result in the confiscation of the object of the offence.
The changes to the Criminal Code will extend criminal liability to individuals who have already been punished under the Administrative Offences Code. This means that individuals who have already been fined for promoting non-traditional gender identities, same-sex relationships, or incest may also face fines, loss of the right to hold office or engage in certain activities for up to 3 years, or imprisonment for up to 2 years.
Furthermore, the proposed changes also criminalize performing surgical operations on individuals for the purpose of changing their gender identity or using other methods to change their biological sex. This could result in fines, loss of the right to hold office or engage in certain activities, or imprisonment for up to 2 years.
It is concerning that the government is targeting the LGBT community with these changes, which could lead to discrimination and further marginalization. These changes go against the principles of equality and human rights, and it is important to speak out against them.
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