Georgian PM defends law on family values amid EU criticism Opposes LGBT Propaganda

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has demanded clear arguments from those criticising the recently enacted laws in the country—namely, the "Law on the Protection of Family Values and Minors," which prohibits LGBT propaganda, and the "Law on the Transparency of Foreign Influence."

According to reports from Georgian media, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk have all expressed concern over the political situation in Georgia, Caliber.Az reports.

In a joint statement, the European leaders warned that unless Georgia changes its current trajectory and shows significant progress in reforms, particularly by repealing laws seen as contradictory to European values and principles, they would be unable to support the opening of negotiations for Georgia's EU accession.

“If anyone has objections to the ‘Law on the Protection of Family Values and Minors’ or the ‘Law on the Transparency of Foreign Influence,’ they need to specifically point out what they dislike—what article, what provision,” Kobakhidze declared.

Notably, on November 1, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that the country’s law on family values is solely focused on prohibiting what he termed as "LGBT propaganda". Kobakhidze emphasised that the legislation does not infringe upon private lives, asserting that human rights are currently protected at an unprecedented level in Georgia.

“Human rights are safeguarded at the highest standard in our country. No one’s private life or lifestyle is interfered with or judged,” Kobakhidze said. He highlighted that criticisms of the law should be backed with specific reasons, adding that it only addresses the prevention of LGBT-related promotion.

The prime minister also mentioned a trend in Europe where traditional terms like "mother" and "father" are being reconsidered, which he described as concerning. He reiterated that the law ensures these traditional family references remain unchanged.

The family values legislation, adopted in October, includes provisions that ban the production and distribution of content considered LGBT propaganda in educational settings, and restricts information that could encourage non-traditional gender identities, same-sex relationships, or incest.

By Aghakazim Guliyev