Estonia, Norway criticize Georgia’s “anti-LGBT” legislation

Estonian and Norwegian foreign ministers have condemned Georgia’s recent adoption of a controversial law “targeting LGBT+ rights”.

Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna and Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide expressed concerns over the bill, which passed its third reading in Georgia’s parliament with 84 votes from the ruling majority this week.

Tsahkna, speaking on social media, criticized the law, stating, “Disturbing to see Georgia trampling upon the rights of some minority groups under the banner of protecting family values”.

Similarly, Barth Eide called the bill a threat to Georgia’s democratic values and Euro-Atlantic aspirations. In a statement issued by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he stressed that the law “undermines fundamental rights” and urged the Georgian government to reconsider the legislation.

The law, titled On Family Values and Protection of Minors, has raised alarm due to its focus on curbing what is perceived as “LGBT propaganda.” Critics argue that this legislative move risks isolating Georgia from its Western partners while further marginalizing LGBT+ communities within the country.