Greece has made history by becoming the first nation with a Christian Orthodox majority to legalise same-sex marriage.
This landmark decision, reflected in a parliamentary vote of 176-76, not only legalises marriage for same-sex couples but also grants them the right to adopt children.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis lauded the enactment of this law as a decisive step towards eradicating a profound disparity within society. However, the move has ignited a polarised response across the nation, with the Orthodox Church spearheading the opposition, culminating in a protest rally in Athens’ Syntagma Square. Demonstrators there expressed their dissent through banners, prayers, and biblical songs.
Archbishop Ieronymos, the leader of the Orthodox Church, criticised the legislation, arguing it would erode the nation’s social fabric. Despite requiring only a simple majority in the 300-seat parliament, the bill’s passage depended on support from opposition parties, given the resistance from several members of Mitsotakis’ centre-right party.
During parliamentary discussions, Mitsotakis emphasised the law’s capacity to bring previously marginalised individuals into the societal fold, enhancing the lives of many without detracting from others. The approval of this bill marks a significant achievement for LGBTQ+ organisations in Greece, with Stella Belia of Rainbow Families heralding it as a joyous and historic day.
This development positions Greece as a pioneer in marriage equality in South-Eastern Europe and adds to the growing list of nations worldwide embracing similar reforms. Prior to this, Greece’s progress on LGBTQ+ rights had been slow, attributed largely to the Orthodox Church’s opposition. With 15 European Union countries already recognising same-sex marriage, Greece’s decision underscores a significant shift towards inclusivity and equality.
