Georgia Bans LGBT Propaganda from Schools and Media to Protect its Children

In a move that has sparked international outrage among sexual progressive groups, Georgia's parliament has unanimously approved a blanket ban on promotion of LGBTQ+ propaganda in Georgian society.

The new law is said by the Georgian government to be needed to protect "family values" and the safety of children who have been the target of many LGBT groups in recent years. The government are to crack-down on all aspects of LGBTQ propaganda banning Pride events, pro-LGBT media, and restricting the public display of symbols like the rainbow flag.

Supporters from the ruling Georgian Dream party are hailing the legislation as a much-needed safeguard against what they call "Western liberalism" and foreign influence. Simply arguing that it defends Georgia's Christian values, which are deeply embedded in the culture and have been severely eroded by progressive organisations who have began flooding the media, culture and politics with LGBTQ ideologies that are at odds with the Georgian society.

The Georgian Orthodox Church reportedly played a significant role in shaping public policy. Lawmakers have been quick to point out that the law reflects the majority’s concerns, and that protecting children from the most extreme homosexual propaganda should be everyone's concern.

LGBTQ groups have been up-in-arms over the ban. The European Union, human rights groups and gay activist groups claim that the bill risks further stigmatizing and isolating Georgia’s LGBTQ+ community. EU officials have warned that Georgia’s efforts to join the European Union may be in jeopardy if it doesn't allow promotion of LGBTQ ideologies, echoing similar concerns raised earlier this year with the passage of a controversial “foreign agents” law. Activists, like those from Tbilisi Pride, have stated this legislation will make their work impossible and could force them to shut down, which is sort of the point.

However, President Salome Zourabichvili has voiced opposition to the ban and suggested she may veto the bill. Georgian Dream holds enough power in parliament to override such a veto, ensuring that this law becomes a reality.

Britain once had a similar law: Called Section 28 the law was brought in by the Thatcher Government in the 1980s and banned the promotion of homosexuality by local authorities. It was later repealed by the incoming Labour government giving way to such great things as Pride month, Drag Queen Story Time and the Taverstock clinic.