In an unprecedented move, Greece has shattered religious barriers to become the first Christian Orthodox-majority nation to endorse same-sex marriage and adoption rights. This landmark decision marks Greece’s entry into a group of progressive European Union nations, positioning it as the 16th EU country, the 21st in Europe, and the 37th globally to embrace this level of LGBTQ equality. The Greek Parliament, demonstrating a significant shift in societal attitudes, approved the legislation with a notable majority of 176-76 votes on February 15.
The Journey of Legal Recognition
The road to this monumental ruling began in 2015 when Greece expanded civil partnership rights to same-sex couples, yet hesitated to grant full parental rights. The newly passed bill now ensures that same-sex couples can legally adopt children, recognizing both individuals as legal guardians. This is a significant advancement from the previous legislation, which only recognized the biological parent as the legal guardian. While the bill falls short of granting access to assisted reproduction methods or surrogate pregnancies, it acknowledges children born abroad through these means, providing a partial victory for LGBTQ families.
Prime Minister’s Pledge and the Orthodox Church’s Stance
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who had pledged his support for the law following his re-election in 2023, highlighted the visibility and recognition this law would bring to same-sex couples and their children. Mitsotakis emphasized the practical benefits of the legislation, allowing same-sex parents to fully participate in their children’s lives, from school activities to medical emergencies. This move, however, was met with fierce opposition from the Greek Orthodox Church, which has historically played a significant role in shaping public opinion and policy in Greece. Despite a detailed 1,500-word opinion from the Church expressing its concerns, the government proceeded with the legislation, signaling a significant departure from traditional religious influences.
A Future of Inclusivity and Challenges Ahead
This historic ruling not only celebrates the visibility and rights of LGBTQ individuals in Greece but also sets a precedent for other Orthodox-majority countries grappling with similar issues. It reflects a broader trend towards inclusivity and equality within a region often characterized by conservative values. Nonetheless, the exclusion of assisted reproduction and surrogate pregnancy rights from the bill underscores the ongoing challenges and limitations faced by the LGBTQ community. As Greece takes this significant step forward, the dialogue between progressive ideals and traditional beliefs continues, shaping the future of LGBTQ rights in Orthodox-majority nations.