UK criticizes Georgia’s new Family Values Law, citing human rights concerns

The British Embassy in Georgia has expressed serious concern over the adoption of a controversial legislative package titled Family Values and Protection of Minors, passed in its third and final reading by the Georgian Parliament on Tuesday.

The United Kingdom warns that the new legislation „undermines fundamental human rights, including the rights to freedom of expression and assembly, and risks further stigmatisation and discrimination of part of the Georgian population.”

In a statement released by the British Embassy in Tbilisi, the UK government voiced its regret over Georgia’s decision to move forward with the legislation, despite the Venice Commission’s advice to “reconsider this legislative proposal entirely and not proceed with its adoption.” The Embassy urged Georgian authorities to rethink the package, noting that it poses risks not only to civil society but also to the wider UK-Georgia relationship.

The legislative package, initiated by the ruling Georgian Dream party, seeks to restrict what it refers to as “LGBT propaganda.” Passed with 84 votes in favor and none against, the law introduces significant changes to 18 existing pieces of legislation, including the “Law on Freedom of Speech and Expression.”

The new amendments expand the grounds for limiting speech, making it illegal to hold public gatherings or demonstrations promoting gender identities different from biological sex, same-sex relationships, or incest. In addition, the law requires broadcasters to refrain from airing content that depicts or promotes LGBT relationships or incest.