Georgian Parliament Passes 'Anti LGBTQ Propaganda' law in First Reading
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, June 28, 2024
The Georgian Parliament has adopted a controversial legislative package "Anti LGBTQ Propaganda" law, described as homophobic and censorious in its first reading. The package received support from 78 MPs, who celebrated its passage with applause.
The constitutional bill, which requires 113 votes to pass, was postponed. Chairman Shalva Papuashvili announced that the vote will occur when the opposition members are present in the hall. Currently, the parliamentary majority lacks the necessary votes to pass the constitutional changes without opposition support.
The draft legislation, debated on June 26, was postponed by Mamuka Mdinaradze, the leader of the majority, who insisted that the opposition should express its position on the draft law. The discussion saw the attendance of only Girchi MPs from the opposition, while the rest maintained their boycott.
The second and third readings of the package are scheduled for the fall session, as the spring session concludes on June 28.
The main draft law and the accompanying 18 amendments aim to impose censorship on propaganda, broadcasters, and art, and to restrict freedom of assembly. A constitutional draft with similar content has also been submitted to the parliament.
The Venice Commission has expressed concerns about these legislative changes. The Commission recommended that Georgian authorities reconsider and refrain from adopting changes that could further deteriorate the situation of the LGBTI community in Georgia.
This legislative move has sparked significant controversy and concern among human rights advocates and international observers, who warn that it could severely impact freedom of expression and the rights of the LGBTI community in Georgia.
