**Parliament Proposes Controversial Ban on LGBT Events**
A new and concerning proposal has been made in the Georgian parliament to ban LGBT marches and related items. This was announced by Shalva Papuashvili, the Chairman of the Parliament, who stated that a legislative proposal will be sent to the Human Rights Committee for review.
According to reports, the details of the proposal are not yet clear, but it appears to aim at restricting or completely banning LGBT marches and related items. This move has sparked concerns among human rights groups and advocates for LGBTQ+ individuals in Georgia.
**Concerns Over Freedom of Assembly**
The proposed ban on LGBT marches raises serious concerns about the freedom of assembly and expression in Georgia. Article 28 of the Georgian Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, and this proposal seems to undermine that fundamental principle.
“This is a worrying development for human rights defenders in Georgia,” said Elene Khoshtaria, a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. “The Georgian government should prioritize protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.”
**Human Rights Implications**
The proposal’s implications on human rights are significant. By restricting or banning LGBT marches and related items, Georgia risks violating international human rights obligations, including those related to freedom of assembly and non-discrimination.
“The proposed ban is a step back for Georgia’s commitment to upholding human rights standards,” noted a spokesperson from the European Union delegation in Tbilisi. “We expect the Georgian government to respect its international obligations and protect the rights of all citizens.”
**Next Steps**
The proposal will now be reviewed by the Human Rights Committee, which may hold public hearings or discussions on the matter. It remains to be seen how this proposal will be received by parliamentarians and civil society groups in Georgia.
In the meantime, human rights advocates are calling on the Georgian government to reconsider its stance and prioritize protecting the rights of all citizens.
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