Lithuania’s Constitutional Court has struck down the country’s 2009 “gay propaganda” law, declaring it unconstitutional and a violation of democratic values.
The legislation, part of the Law on the Protection of Minors Against the Detrimental Effect of Public Information, prohibited the “promotion” of homosexuality to minors.
The court ruled last month that labelling information about diverse families and relationships as inherently “inappropriate” for children contradicts the state’s constitutional duty to support “harmonious and comprehensive child development.” Additionally, it found the law to be in conflict with the principles of human rights, dignity, and the democratic values of equality, pluralism, and tolerance.
The law, which had restricted children’s books with LGBTQ+ characters and limited broadcasts featuring LGBTQ+ topics, was criticised for suppressing open discussions about diversity.
Local LGBTQ+ advocacy group Lithuanian Gay League welcomed the ruling, highlighting the damaging effects the law had on the community.
“The provision’s existence created a significant chilling effect, leading to self-censorship among LGBTIQ+ individuals, organisations, and media outlets,” the group said in a statement. “This contributed to increased minority stress, as individuals and organisations had to constantly evaluate whether their expression, events, or publications might fall foul of the law.”
The court’s decision emphasised the importance of exposing young people to information that reflects societal diversity, asserting that family structures can exist beyond traditional definitions of marriage.
While LGBTQ+ relationships have been legal in Lithuania since 1993, same-sex marriages remain banned, and no legal recognition exists for same-sex partnerships. Despite these barriers, the Constitutional Court’s ruling represents a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ rights in the nation.
