In a historic decision, Greece has become the first country with a Christian Orthodox majority to legalise same-sex marriage. This is a significant milestone for the LGBTQ+ community, as previously, same-sex couples were only allowed to enter into civil partnerships in Greece.
In addition to legalising same-sex marriage, Greece has also granted the legal right to same-sex couples to adopt children. This move is a significant step towards equality for same-sex couples and acknowledges the importance of family and the right of all families to have legal recognition and protection.
176/76 Parliament is in favour of homosexuals
The bill was passed in parliament with a vote of 176-76, with the majority voting in favour of the new legislation. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who supported the bill, has described the new law as a bold move that eliminates a significant form of inequality.
This decision by Greece is not only a significant moment for the country but also a positive step towards LGBTQ+ rights worldwide.
The people of the country are divided because of this decision
The decision to allow a new law has caused a significant division within the country, with opposing views emerging from both sides. The powerful Orthodox Church has led fierce resistance against the implementation of the law, citing concerns about its potential impact on the social harmony of the homeland. Supporters of the law have held a protest rally in Athens, displaying banners, holding crosses, reciting prayers and singing passages from the Bible in Syntagma Square.
Archbishop Ironimos, the head of the Orthodox Church, has been vocal in his opposition to the law, stating that it could lead to a significant cultural shift, which could have far-reaching consequences. However, those in favour of the law argue that it is necessary to ensure that the country continues to move forward and remains inclusive.
Despite the strong resistance from the Orthodox Church, the law only required a simple majority to pass through the 300-member parliament. The passage of the law has sparked heated debates across the country, with both sides passionately arguing their case. It remains to be seen how the implementation of the law will impact the country in the long term.
The Prime Minister passed this with difficulty
The Prime Minister of Greece, Mr Mitsotakis, has been a strong proponent of a particular bill. This bill has been the subject of significant debate and controversy, with many members of his own centre-right ruling party opposing it. However, Mr Mitsotakis was persistent in his efforts to get the bill passed, and he eventually succeeded with the help of opposition parties.
During a pre-vote debate in Parliament, the Prime Minister spoke about the bill and its potential impact. He mentioned that it would help bring much-needed visibility to people who were previously overlooked in Greek society. These individuals, who were once invisible, would finally be seen and heard, and their contributions to society would be recognised.
Mr Mitsotakis also emphasised that the reforms proposed in the bill would not negatively impact the lives of many Greeks. Instead, he argued that the changes would improve the lives of a few citizens who had been left behind by previous policies. He expressed his hope that these reforms would help many children find their rightful place in society and give them the opportunities they deserve.
Despite the opposition faced by Mr Mitsotakis and the controversy surrounding the bill, it eventually passed, marking an important moment for Greece and its people.
A great dissension from the Orthodox Church
The recent vote to legalise same-sex marriage in Greece has been hailed as a historic moment and a day of joy by LGBTQ organisations in the country. The head of Rainbow Families for Gay Parents, Stella Belia, expressed her excitement, noting that the decision represented a significant step forward for LGBTQ rights in Greece.
It is worth noting that 15 out of 27 members of the European Union have already legalised same-sex marriage, and it is allowed in 35 countries worldwide. However, Greece has been slower to do so, largely due to opposition from the church.
The legalisation of same-sex marriage in Greece marks a significant moment for LGBTQ rights in Southeastern Europe. Greece has now become the first country in the region to have marriage equality, setting a positive example for other countries in the area to follow.
With the passing of this historic legislation, LGBTQ individuals in Greece can now enjoy the same legal recognition and protections afforded to heterosexual couples. The move towards greater equality and inclusivity is an important step forward for Greece and the wider LGBTQ community.
