By Karam Makkaoui | Staff Writer 

Greece made history as it became the first Orthodox Christian nation to legalize same-sex marriage. The enactment of this law represents a major step towards equality and human rights, despite the fervent opposition from the Orthodox Church and several segments of society. Leading the Bill’s initiative was Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who emphasized the value of equal rights for all people. He underscored that same-sex marriage was a basic question of equality and social justice as well as law. With Greece becoming the 35th country to have legalized same-sex marriage, Mitsotakis reaffirmed the country’s dedication to progressive principles and European objectives. 

There was a great deal of heated discussion and divergent views during the legalization process. With considerable influence, the Orthodox Church vehemently opposed the bill, claiming that it would upend conventional family structures and undermine social cohesiveness. However, even with opposition from inside Mistotakis’s party and disapproval from former prime minister Antonis Samaras, the law garnered support to pass in parliament.

The law’s passing represents a victory for Greece’s LGBTQ+ community and human rights activists. As “Rainbow Families” founder Stella Belia celebrated it as a long-overdue milestone, Greek National Commission for Human Rights chairperson Maria Gavouneli lauded it as a big success that would grant legal protection and recognition for same-sex spouses and their children. 

Most importantly, the law extends equal parental rights to same-sex couples, ensuring that each spouse is acknowledged as the child’s legal guardian. In addition to defending the rights of LGBTQ+ families, this clause takes care of pragmatic issues including inheritance, healthcare, and education. 

However, the legislation falls short in certain areas, most notably in the way it excludes transgender individual’s rights and sets limitations on assisted reproduction and surrogate pregnancies. Even if these problems are still unresolved, the legalization of same-sex marriage sets the stage for future advancement and tolerance. 

The bill’s passing reflects how Greek society is beginning to embrace diversity and challenge ingrained prejudice. Opinion surveys show that despite early disagreements, people are becoming more accepting of same-sex unions, especially the younger generations. 

Beyond Greece’s boundaries, the significance of this legislative achievement resonates with wider discussions on LGBTQ+ rights and equality throughout Europe. By aligning itself with progressive forces inside the European Union, Greece has reaffirmed its commitment to democratic values and human rights standards. 

The approval of this legislation serves as a victory of love, equality, and justice for same-sex Greek LGBTQ+ members as they rejoice over their newly acquired legal status and rights. It is an important step toward creating a more equal and inclusive society in which everyone has the freedom to live and love as they want, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. 

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/2/16/greece-first-orthodox-christian-country-to-legalise-same-sex-marriage

https://edition.cnn.com/2024/02/21/us/tennessee-marriage-license-solemnize-reaj/index.html?iid=cnn_buildContentRecirc_end_recirc

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-68310126

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/15/world/europe/greece-same-sex-marriage.html