Greece Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage: A Historic Victory for Equality

Greece is the first Christian Orthodox-majority country to approve same-sex marriage. The historic decision made by the Greek parliament is a big triumph for the country’s LGBTQ+ community. Let us delve into the specifics and ramifications of this historic change.

Greece Legalizes Same-Sex Marriage

The Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage

On a historic day, the Greek parliament approved legislation enabling same-sex civil marriage. This historic triumph for LGBT rights advocates was celebrated in both the parliamentary chambers and the streets of Athens. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis praised the new law as a bold step toward eliminating serious inequalities.

Here are some key characteristics of Greece’s same-sex marriage legalization:

1. Marriage Equality: Same-sex couples now have the same legal rights and respect as heterosexual couples.
2. Adoption Rights: The Act allows same-sex couples to adopt children, a significant step toward equality.
3. Resistance from the Orthodox Church: The Greek Orthodox Church strongly opposed the law. Despite this, the parliament’s action represents progress.

Voices of Change

Prime Minister Mitsotakis stressed the reform’s good impact: “People who have been invisible will finally be made visible around us, and with them, many children will finally find their rightful place.” His statements express the hope that this law change will improve people’s lives without detracting from others.

Global Context

While Greece has fallen behind some of its European peers in terms of LGBTQ+ rights, this action propels it forward. Same-sex marriage is already allowed in 15 of the European Union’s 27 member countries, and it is also authorized in 35 other countries globally. Greece is now the first country in Southeast Europe to implement marriage equality. 

Photo by Georgios Arapekos/NurPhoto via Getty Image

What is the history of same-sex marriage in Greece?

Same-sex marriage in Greece has a fascinating history that reflects both progress and challenges. Let’s delve into the key milestones:
  • Early Struggles:
    • Pre-Modern Greece: Historically, same-sex relationships were not uncommon in ancient Greece. The concept of marriage, however, was primarily heterosexual, and formal recognition of same-sex unions did not exist.
    • Criminalization: During the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, same-sex relationships faced severe legal and social repercussions. Homosexuality was often criminalized, and LGBTQ+ individuals were marginalized.
  • Emergence of LGBTQ+ Activism:
    • 1970s and 1980s: As global LGBTQ+ movements gained momentum, Greece saw the emergence of its activists. Organizations like Athens Pride began advocating for equal rights and visibility.
    • 1990s: The fight for LGBTQ+ rights intensified. Activists pushed for anti-discrimination laws and recognition of same-sex relationships.
  • Legal Progress:
    • Civil Unions: In 2015, Greece took a significant step by introducing civil partnerships for same-sex couples. While not full marriage equality, it granted certain rights related to inheritance, property, and healthcare.
    • Same-Sex Marriage: The turning point came in 2019 when the Greek parliament passed a bill allowing same-sex couples to enter into civil marriages. This marked a historic shift toward full equality.
  • Challenges and Opposition:
    • Conservative Resistance: The powerful Greek Orthodox Church has consistently opposed LGBTQ+ rights, including same-sex marriage. Their influence has been a hurdle in the path toward complete acceptance.
    • Social Attitudes: While progress has been made, conservative social attitudes persist. Some segments of society remain resistant to change.
  • Recent Legalization:
    • 2024: Greece achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Christian Orthodox-majority country to fully legalize same-sex marriage. The bill received parliamentary approval, signifying a triumph for equality and love.

What are some other LGBTQ+ rights issues in Greece?

Legalization for Same-Sex Marriage:

Although Greece recognized civil unions for same-sex couples in 2015, complete marriage equality is still pending. Advocates continue to campaign for the acceptance of same-sex weddings, which would provide LGBTQ+ couples equal rights and status.

Adoptive Rights:

Single LGBTQ+ persons can adopt children, but same-sex couples cannot legally adopt together. This restriction limits the number of family-building alternatives available to LGBTQ+ Greek families.

Lack of Anti-Bullying regulations:

Greece currently lacks anti-bullying regulations for LGBTQ+ students in schools. Combating bullying and prejudice is critical to providing safe and inclusive learning environments for all children.

Conversion Therapy:

Shockingly, conversion therapy remains legal in Greece. This harmful practice attempts to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity and has been widely discredited by medical and psychological experts.

    Conclusion

    The legalization of same-sex marriage in Greece is a testament to progress, resilience, and the tireless efforts of activists. As the nation celebrates this historic victory, it sends a powerful message: love knows no boundaries, and equality is a fundamental right for all.

    SOURCE: https://www.hellenicparliament.gr/en/

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