In a landmark move, Greece’s center-right government has announced its plans to legalize same-sex marriage, defying the strong opposition from the nation’s influential Orthodox Church. The government spokesman, Pavlos Marinakis, declared that the legislation would be introduced to parliament before the end of the current term in 2027. This decision comes in the wake of a detailed statement from the Church’s governing Holy Synod, which vehemently opposed the proposal, focusing particularly on the welfare of children in gay households.
The Church’s Stance and Societal Implications
The Orthodox Church’s main contention is the impact of same-sex marriages on children. The Church argues that children are being perceived as mere “accessories” or “companion pets” for gay couples. Despite acknowledging the Church’s opinion, Marinakis emphasized the government’s policy to consider the views of the broader society, including civil society, citizens, institutions, and political parties. This move has garnered significant attention in Greek media, reflecting a nation divided on the issue. While there’s a split opinion on same-sex marriage, there remains a broader opposition to granting full parental rights to gay couples.
Global Context and Political Support
Globally, same-sex marriage is legal in 34 countries, as noted by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. However, none of these countries are predominantly Orthodox Christian like Greece, though several have adopted civil partnerships in recent years. Within Greece’s political landscape, there’s a mix of support and opposition from prominent members of the governing conservatives. The left-wing and center-left parties generally favor the initiative. Notably, Greece’s left-wing opposition leader, Stefanos Kasselakis, who recently married his male partner in New York, represents a significant stride towards inclusivity.
A Step Towards Equality
The government’s decision marks a significant step towards equality in a country where the Orthodox Church holds considerable influence. Legalizing same-sex marriage in Greece not only challenges traditional religious norms but also aligns the nation with a growing global movement towards LGBTQ+ rights. This move, coupled with Greece’s legalization of same-sex civil partnerships in 2015, signals a progressive shift in the societal and political landscape, reflecting changing attitudes towards marriage and family in the 21st century.