Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis leads Greece to make history as the first Orthodox Christian country to legalize same-sex marriage.
Greece's parliament has broken traditional norms by legalizing same-sex marriage and adoption, positioning the nation as a pioneer among Orthodox countries.
The historic decision, championed by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the New Democracy party, comes despite strong opposition from the influential Orthodox Church. Parliament passed a bill that not only legalizes same-sex marriage but also adoption into same-sex families.
The bill received overwhelming support with 176 votes in favor of the 245 deputies present, after two days of passionate debates. Prime Minister Mitsotakis hailed the decision as a “milestone for human rights” and a reflection of Greece as a “progressive and democratic country, passionately committed to European values.”
Despite strong opposition from the influential Orthodox Church, the reform prevailed with the support of opposition parties, including the leftist Syriza party led by Stefanos Kasselakis, an openly gay figure. The clash between tradition and progressive ideals underscores a social shift toward recognizing and protecting the rights of the LGBTQ community.
Stefanos Kasselakis's personal experiences added a human dimension to the debates, emphasizing the real-world impact of legal inequalities on same-sex couples and their families. The resounding approval of the bill signifies a departure from traditional norms within the Orthodox community.
As rainbow flags flew in front of the parliament building in central Athens, LGBTQ families celebrated a historic moment. The reform addresses critical issues facing these families, providing legal recognition and previously denied rights.
Greece's path to inclusion began in 2015 with the legalization of civil unions for same-sex couples. The latest reform, which makes Greece the first Orthodox nation to allow same-sex marriage, sends ripples of change beyond its borders, challenging other conservative societies to reevaluate their stance on LGBTQ rights.
“This is a milestone for human rights, reflecting Greece today: a progressive and democratic country, passionately committed to European values,” proclaimed Prime Minister Mitsotakis, summarizing the essence of a momentous step towards equality in the Orthodox world. .
