In a historic move, the Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced the imminent introduction of a bill legalizing same-sex marriage, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s commitment to eradicating discrimination based on sexual orientation. This progressive step comes as part of Greece’s ongoing effort to enhance LGBT+ rights, a journey that has seen significant reforms over the past decade.
Breaking Traditional Boundaries
Mitsotakis, who is actively reshaping the conventional image of a conservative leader, has been at the forefront of drafting a comprehensive national strategy on LGBT+ rights. This strategy, while likely to garner support from progressive factions, might also ignite controversy in more conservative circles. “What we will legislate is marriage equality, which means the elimination of any discrimination based on sexual orientation,” the Prime Minister stated in a recent interview. He emphasized that this move aligns Greece with other European nations that have already adopted similar laws.
Church and State: A Delicate Balance
The proposed legislation, which distinguishes between civil and religious marriage, is poised to face resistance, particularly from the influential Orthodox Church, which is a cornerstone of Greek society. The bill is a delicate balancing act for Mitsotakis, who must navigate not only societal beliefs but also differing views within his own party and cabinet. Despite previous measures like the recognition of cohabitation agreements for same-sex couples in 2015, the Greek LGBT+ community has been vocal about the need for more comprehensive rights, including adoption.
A Nation Divided
Public opinion remains divided on the issue, as revealed in a recent Alco poll where only 35% of respondents supported the idea, with a significant portion expressing opposition to child adoption by same-sex couples. However, Mitsotakis remains optimistic about fostering a broader acceptance of the bill through public consultation and dialogue.