Georgia passes law curbing LGBTQ rights

The Georgian government's ruling party has adopted a "family values" bill that mirrors similar legislation in Russia, aimed at curbing LGBTQ+ rights. The bill, which has been approved by lawmakers in its third and final reading, would provide a legal basis for authorities to outlaw Pride events and public displays of the LGBTQ+ rainbow flag. The legislation also bans gender transition, adoption by gay and transgender people, and nullifies same-sex marriages performed abroad on Georgian territory. The bill is now awaiting signature from President Salome Zurabishvili, who has expressed concerns about the legislation. The Georgian Dream party leaders argue that the bill is necessary to safeguard traditional moral standards in Georgia.