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Greece Makes History as First Christian Orthodox Country to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage
In a historic move, Greece has become the first Christian Orthodox-majority country to legalize same-sex marriage.
The landmark decision, marked by a 176-76 vote in parliament on Thursday, also grants legal permission for same-sex couples to adopt children.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, a supporter of the bill, emphasized the importance of addressing “serious inequality” through this legislation.
The new law aims to bring visibility to previously marginalized individuals and create a more inclusive society.
However, the decision has triggered division within the country, notably led by the powerful Orthodox Church.
Demonstrators displayed banners, held crosses, recited prayers, and sang passages from the Bible in Syntagma Square.
Archbishop Ieronymos, the head of the Orthodox Church, voiced concerns that the measure would “corrupt the homeland’s social cohesion.”
The bill needed a simple majority to pass through the 300-member parliament.
While Mr. Mitsotakis championed the bill, garnering support from opposition parties was crucial due to opposition within his centre-right governing party.
During the parliamentary debate, Prime Minister Mitsotakis stated, “People who have been invisible will finally be made visible around us, and with them, many children will finally find their rightful place.”
He emphasized that the reform enhances the lives of citizens without taking away from others.
The LGBTQ community in Greece and LGBTQ organizations welcomed the historic moment. Stella Belia, the head of the same-sex parents’ group Rainbow Families, described it as “a day of joy.”
This decision positions Greece alongside 15 European Union member states that have already legalized same-sex marriage, contributing to the global movement for LGBTQ rights.
The move is particularly significant for Greece, which had lagged behind some European neighbors in embracing marriage equality.
The opposition, historically fueled by the Orthodox Church, makes Greece the first country in south-eastern Europe to achieve marriage equality.
The outcome reflects a shift toward greater acceptance and recognition of LGBTQ rights in a nation where such unions had faced resistance.
