Greece's parliament achieved a significant milestone by endorsing a bill permitting same-sex civil marriage, marking a triumph for advocates of LGBT rights. The legislative victory, greeted with applause within parliament and celebrated by crowds in the streets of Athens, grants same-sex couples the right to marry and adopt children after years of activism by the LGBT community for marriage equality in the traditionally conservative nation.
As one of the first Orthodox Christian countries to embrace such unions, Greece enters uncharted territory with this progressive legislation. Stella Belia, representing the same-sex parents group Rainbow Families, hailed the occasion as historic, emphasizing the joyous significance of the moment.
The bill, endorsed by 176 lawmakers in the 300-seat parliament, awaits publication in the official government gazette to become law. Despite opposition from members of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis' New Democracy party, the bill garnered cross-party support, reflecting a rare instance of unity amidst a divisive debate.
The decision, lauded as a pivotal stride for human rights and societal equality, reflects a split sentiment among Greeks, with the influential Orthodox Church voicing opposition due to religious beliefs. While the bill falls short of addressing all concerns, notably regarding assisted reproduction methods and surrogate pregnancies, it acknowledges children born through such means abroad.
Amidst celebrations outside parliament, LGBT activists expressed pride in Greece's progressiveness, highlighting the gradual shift in societal attitudes. Despite longstanding resistance from conservative factions, recent legal reforms, including civil partnerships and recognition of gender identity, underscore Greece's evolving stance on LGBT rights, signaling a promising trajectory towards inclusivity and acceptance.
Source: Maltezou, Renee. Reuters. "Greece legalises same sex marriage in landmark change". https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/yes-equality-says-greek-pm-ahead-same-sex-marriage-vote-2024-02-15/. 16th Feb, 2024. [Date accessed: 18th Feb, 2024]
Edited by: Yash Pincha
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