The European Union criticized the Georgian Parliament’s swift adoption of the “family values and protection of minors” legislative package, condemning it as rushed and detrimental to fundamental rights.
EU Lead Spokesperson Peter Stano stated that the package risks further stigmatization and discrimination while lacking public consultation and adherence to European standards. He urged Georgian authorities to reconsider the legislation, emphasizing that it could strain EU-Georgia relations and halt the country’s EU accession process.
The proposed amendments, which include restricting media content and prohibiting promotion of same-sex relationships and gender-affirming measures, face scrutiny as Georgia’s October 26 general elections approach.
On Tuesday, Beka Davituliani, an MP from the ruling Georgian Dream party, emphasized the importance of balancing the protection of LGBT rights with measures to shield minors from what he termed “propaganda.”
“The measures include restricting access to television productions that children should not have access to at an early age. This is the task of this law. This is to protect our future generation while not infringing on anyone’s rights,” he said.
His comments follow the party’s introduction of legislative amendments aimed at “strengthening family values” centered on heterosexual unions and implementing protections for minors.
The Georgian Parliament resumed discussions on this amendment package on Monday. The proposed measures include restrictions on media content for children, and prohibitions on promoting same-sex relationships, adoption by same-sex couples, and gender-affirming treatments.
To pass these amendments, the ruling party will need to secure at least 113 out of 150 seats in the upcoming October 26 elections.
By Team GT
