On September 17, the Georgian Parliament passed a controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill with 84 votes in favor and 0 against. The bill, titled “On Protection of Family Values and Minors,” includes 18 amendments to existing laws in Georgia.
Despite opposition from President Salome Zurabishvili, who refused to sign the bill but did not veto it, Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili signed it into law on October 3. The law will take effect 60 days after publication, which is more than a month after the crucial October 26 parliamentary elections.
The adoption of this legislation has sparked international concern and condemnation. The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) expressed deep concern over the discriminatory nature of the law, stating that it violates fundamental rights and hinders access to essential health services for LGBTQ+ individuals. UNAIDS called on Georgian authorities to repeal the law, as it will only further isolate and harm marginalized communities.
Marc Cools, President of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, also expressed concern over the legislation, stating that it goes against the principles of the European Convention on Human Rights. He urged the President of Georgia to veto the bill, as it denies the human dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals and promotes discrimination.
The adoption of this anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is a step backwards for Georgia and goes against the values of equality, inclusion, and diversity. It is important for all individuals to be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Discriminatory laws have no place in modern society and only serve to harm and divide communities.
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