A historic measure
Greece’s Parliament has approved a historic measure allowing same-sex marriage and the adoption of minors by same-sex couples. This reform, promoted by the Conservative Government, has received the support of several opposition parties, despite the opposition of the Orthodox Church.
Expanding rights
With this approval, Greece becomes the 20th country in Europe and the first Orthodox Christian country to allow same-sex marriage. This measure expands the rights of homosexual couples and recognizes their equality before the law.
Freedom of vote
The head of conservative government, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has given the freedom of vote to the legislators of his formation, the conservative New Democracy (ND), after the internal opposition of the most conservative wing to the measure. This has allowed the reform to be approved with a clear majority.
A promise fulfilled
Marriage equality was one of the key campaign promises of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who won a clear victory in the June 2023 elections. With the approval of this measure, the Government has kept its word despite the ‘opposition of the Orthodox Church.
Recognition of families
The new legislation provides more security and recognition for same-sex couples and their families. Now, same-sex couples will have more peace of mind by being freed from the worry of losing custody of their children in some circumstances.
Pending criticism and challenges
Despite the celebration of the passage of this law, some LGTBI associations criticize that surrogacy for homosexual couples has not been authorized and that there are still obstacles to access to assisted reproduction treatments. These are outstanding challenges that need to be addressed in the future.
conclusion
The approval of same-sex marriage and the adoption of minors by same-sex couples in the Greek Parliament is an important step towards equality and recognition of the rights of LGBTI people. This historic measure expands freedom and equality for all people, regardless of their sexual orientation.