Top EU diplomat Josep Borrell has called on Georgia to withdraw a controversial “family values” bill that restricts LGBTQ+ rights, warning that it could hinder the country’s chances of joining the EU. The law has been criticized for promoting discrimination and stigmatization, with Borrell urging Georgia to reconsider to stay on track for EU membership. This comes after Georgia’s government faced backlash for passing anti-NGO laws, sparking mass protests and crackdowns.
The bill, akin to Russian legislation, restricts LGBTQ rights and prohibits the promotion of same-sex relationships and incest in educational institutions and TV broadcasts. It also bans gender transition, adoption by LGBTQ individuals, and voids same-sex marriages conducted abroad in Georgia. Critics argue that these measures align Georgia closer to the Kremlin, jeopardizing its EU bid.
Initially seen as pro-Western, Georgian Dream’s recent shift to anti-liberal and anti-Western stances has raised concerns about its alignment with Russia. The US imposed sanctions on Georgian officials involved in violence against pro-Western protesters. The situation underscores the dilemma Georgia faces in balancing its aspirations for EU integration while grappling with increasing anti-liberal measures.