Georgian Parliament Passes Second Reading of Bill Banning LGBT "Propaganda"
LGBTQ+ Rights Under Attack in Georgia
Georgia's parliament voted in favor of a second reading of a bill that would criminalize the "propaganda" of LGBT+ identities and relationships. The bill will now face a third reading and, if passed, would become law.
Concerns Raised by Human Rights Groups
Human rights groups have condemned the bill, saying it threatens freedom of expression and violates international human rights standards. The bill's definition of "propaganda" is vague and could be used to target anyone who expresses support for LGBT+ rights.
Georgia's History of LGBT+ Discrimination
Georgia has a long history of discrimination against LGBT+ people. In 2014, the country passed a constitutional amendment defining marriage as between a man and a woman. In 2019, a transgender woman was murdered in the capital, Tbilisi.
International Condemnation
The bill has drawn condemnation from international organizations, including the European Union and the United States. The EU has warned that the bill could lead to Georgia being suspended from the bloc's visa-free travel program.
Calls for Repeal
Activists and human rights groups are calling for the Georgian parliament to repeal the bill. They argue that the bill is discriminatory, violates international human rights law, and undermines Georgia's reputation as a democratic country.
Additional Resources
- Georgian Parliament Passes Second Reading of Bill Banning LGBT "Propaganda" (Fakti.bg)
- Georgia: Parliament Passes Anti-LGBTQ 'Propaganda' Bill on Second Reading (Human Rights Watch)
- EU Warns Georgia Over Anti-LGBT Propaganda Law (Euractiv)
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