Georgian Parliament passes two controversial bills at second reading

The Georgian Parliament on Wednesday approved two controversial bills at their second reading.

The first bill, introduced by the ruling Georgian Dream party, aims to combat alleged LGBT propaganda under the banner of On Family Values and Protection of Minors.

The package includes amendments to 18 existing laws and was passed with 81 votes in favor and none opposed.

The second bill, an amnesty measure, was also approved unanimously, with 84 votes, as the opposition was absent.

This legislation will grant immediate release to around 1,000 individuals, reduce sentences for approximately 4,800 others, and shorten probation terms for about 7,000 individuals. The amnesty applies to crimes committed before July 1, 2024, and covers more than 290 articles of the Criminal Code.