Givi Mikanadze, an MP of the ruling Georgian Dream party, pledged on Thursday to adopt the controversial “anti-LGBT propaganda” bill, claiming that the majority of Georgians support the legislation.
While discussing the bill in parliament, the lawmaker asserted that May 17, the Day of Family Purity established by the country’s Patriarchate and recently declared a national holiday by the current government, saw nearly a million people on the streets. He further noted the absence of the opposition at the meeting, suggesting it indicated their disagreement with the proposed law and a refusal to take responsibility.
“This legislation is being considered thoughtfully and responsibly, based on national interests and societal demands. On May 17, Georgia, along with Western and global partners, witnessed overwhelming public support. The draft law aims to protect the interests of these people and prevent minority groups from imposing their views on others,” Mikanadze said.
The legislative package discussed today consists of 19 bills. The main bill, titled “On Family Values and Protection of Minors,” is supported by 18 additional bills derived from it. The package is authored and initiated by Parliament Chairman Shalva Papuashvili and majority members Mamuka Mdinaradze, Anri Okhanashvili, Rati Ionatamishvili, Maka Botchorishvili, Davit Matikashvili, Tengiz Sharmanashvili, Irakli Shatakishvili, and Sozar Subari.
According to the majority, the purpose of the draft law is to strengthen family values based on the union of men and women and to implement mechanisms for protecting minors, which include various prohibitions and restrictions.
The parliament aims to adopt this legislative package before the end of its current convocation.
