Greece enacted legislation legalizing same-sex marriage following its approval by the Parliament on Thursday, despite resistance from the Orthodox Church.
According to The Associated Press (AP), Greece has become the first Orthodox Christian nation to pass legislation sanctioning same-sex marriage and granting equal parental rights to same-sex couples.
The bill, introduced by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, garnered support from 176 lawmakers representing various political parties out of the 300 members in Parliament. Conversely, 76 members voted against the bill, with two abstentions and 46 members absent during the vote.
On Thursday, proponents and opponents of the legislation congregated outside Parliament while lawmakers deliberated.
As reported by the outlet, earlier in the day, the Prime Minister communicated to lawmakers, stating, “Individuals who have remained unseen will now be acknowledged in our society. Additionally, numerous children will finally find their rightful position.”
Residents Support Same-Sex Marriage
The majority of residents express significant support for same-sex marriage.
However, Former Prime Minister Antonis Samaras from New Democracy, a conservative governing faction, stands in opposition to the legislation.
In his address to Parliament, he asserted that same-sex marriage does not constitute a fundamental human right and emphasized that the country is not obligated to legalize it.
Although the bill affords same-sex couples full parental rights, it does not grant them complete rights concerning surrogacy.
Advocates have voiced concerns regarding this limitation and the absence of provisions for transgender individuals.
The Church of Greece serves as the primary voice of dissent against the bill, expressing disapproval of same-sex marriage.
Church officials contend that the legislation may undermine traditional family values, and they fear that the restriction on surrogacy could potentially expand to encompass same-sex couples in the future.