Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has raised eyebrows after assurting that Western nations would fail in what he describes as an attempt to “impose LGBT ideology” on the Georgian population, before adding that Georgian men “look at women from the cradle.”
Speaking at a security conference in Minsk, Lukashenko’s statements were reported by the BelTA news agency. His comments reflect a dismissal of progressive values and a generalised, stereotyped view of Georgian culture, painting it as incompatible with the inclusion of diverse identities. (The international LGBT movement is banned in Russia, where it is labelled as “extremist.”)
Lukashenko accused the West of applying pressure on Georgia over its foreign agent law, claiming that Georgians only seek “transparency” in their country and implied that Western leaders, notably “Uncle Joe” (referring to US President Joe Biden) and the European Union, are persistently trying to influence Tbilisi with what he disparagingly referred to as “LGBT ideology.” Lukashenko’s choice of words suggests a rejection of Western democratic values. It fails to acknowledge the widespread push for human rights and social inclusion, which extends beyond so-called “Western” ideologies.
“To try to impose LGBT on Georgians… Georgians, who were the most formidable men during the Soviet Union era,” he stated, adding, “They’re pushing LGBT ideology onto them. But Georgians won’t accept it; they have respected women their whole lives, right from the cradle.”
Lukashenko’s remarks not only reinforce stereotypes about masculinity and Georgian culture but also reflect a dated view that fails to recognise the diverse expressions of identity and inclusion embraced by modern societies. Additionally, his speech mischaracterises the Caucasus, ignoring the significant efforts within the region to progress in human rights for LGBTQ+ people despite the challenges they face.
Meanwhile, US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin raised concerns about Georgia’s shifting stance towards Russia, saying that it is “troubling” to see a country with a history of Russian occupation now appearing to realign with Moscow. “It is troubling to see a country partly occupied by Russia now appearing to sympathise with it,” Cardin commented. This sentiment contrasts sharply with Lukashenko’s perspective, highlighting Western concerns about Georgia’s democratic integrity and commitment to autonomy amid Russian influence.
