Georgia recently signed into law measures that restrict LGBTQ+ rights, drawing comparisons to repressive Russian laws. The ruling Georgian Dream party passed the controversial “family values” bill, banning same-sex relationships and gender transition. This move has raised concerns about the country’s drift towards Moscow.
Despite backlash from rights groups and Western countries, Georgia’s parliament pushed the bill through, sparking tensions ahead of crucial elections. The legislation, which aligns with “Christian, Georgian, and European values,” has been criticized for being discriminatory and creating a dangerous environment for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Emerging conflicts
The EU and the US have condemned Georgia’s anti-LGBTQ+ stance, warning that it could hinder the country’s European integration path. With mounting pressure from international allies, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze threatened to reconsider ties with the US if more sanctions are imposed.
Georgian Dream’s shift from a liberal pro-Western agenda to anti-liberal positions has raised suspicions of aligning with the Kremlin. The growing conflict between Tbilisi and Brussels underscores the challenges faced by Georgia in balancing its domestic policies with international expectations.