Greece Makes Landmark Move in Legalising Same-Sex Marriage
Greece has become the first Christian Orthodox-majority nation to legalise same-sex marriage. Following a decisive 176-76 vote in parliament on Thursday, same-sex couples in Greece will now have the legal right to marry and adopt children, reports BBC.
More of the traditional parts of Europe join the 21st Century
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis hailed the new law as a significant step in abolishing a longstanding inequality within the country. The move marks a bold stride towards equal rights for all citizens. However, the decision has sparked division within Greece, particularly among staunch opponents led by the influential Orthodox Church.
Protest rallies, including one in Athens, saw demonstrators holding banners, crosses, and reciting passages from the Bible in opposition to the law. Head of the Orthodox Church Archbishop Ieronymos voiced concerns that the measure could undermine social cohesion within the homeland.
Despite resistance, the bill garnered the necessary support in the 300-member parliament, needing only a simple majority to pass. While Mr Mitsotakis championed the legislation, he relied on the backing of opposition parties to secure its passage, as many members of his centre-right governing party opposed the bill.
The landmark decision has been met with wide-spread approval by LGBTQIA+ organisations across Greece, marking a historic milestone for equal rights. Stella Belia, head of the same-sex parents group Rainbow Families, described the occasion as a day of joy and celebration.
On the world stage, Greece’s newfound marriage equality has garnered support from the fellow 21 European nations who also recognise same-sex unions. Netizens are particularly celebrant of the new law with many turning to humour about the situation. “Inventors of gay s*x finally coming around to gay people being love,” comments one X user. “Crazy cause they practically invented homosexuality,” jokes another.
