Georgian Parliament official criticises perceived EU pressure on LGBT issues, defends anti-propaganda laws

David Matikashvili, an MP from the ruling Georgian Dream party and Chair of the Georgian Parliament’s Committee on Procedural Issues and Rules, on Wednesday expressed hope that Sweden was closely observing Georgia and recognising the Georgian people’s opposition to LGBT propaganda.

In his remarks, Matikashvili challenged the EU’s stance on Georgia’s legislative framework, questioning why it faced obstacles on its path to EU membership over laws he claimed do not violate rights but merely prohibit propaganda.

“I hope they are closely observing our country from Sweden and see that the will of the Georgian people is against this [LGBT] propaganda. Let them clearly state why they demand that Georgia face obstacles on its path to the European Union in exchange for this. Why do they demand the repeal of a legislative framework that only prohibits propaganda and never violates rights?!” Matikashvili noted.

Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili on Wednesday responded to a clarification made by Sweden’s Minister for EU Affairs, who stated that “EU legislation does not require member states or candidate countries to recognise LGBT marriage in their legislation”, noting it was significant that Sweden’s Foreign Ministry corrected Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson’s earlier remark and confirmed that the issue of LGBT marriage falls outside the formal criteria for EU membership.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson had earlier stated that, within the framework of European integration, Ukraine should regulate same-sex partnerships and ensure full legal protection for the LGBT community.

Sweden’s Embassy in Georgia on Tuesday issued a statement to Imedi TV, emphasising that the protection of LGBTQ rights was a critical component of integration into the European Union.