On October 3, 2024, the Georgian Parliament enacted a controversial law that significantly restricts LGBTQ+ rights, mirroring similar legislation in Russia.

The 'family values' law, passed by the ruling party Georgian Dream, severely limits the portrayal of same-sex relationships in schools and media.

LGBT activists argue that this legislation is a strategy by Georgian Dream to gain support from conservative voters ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections.

The European Union and Western nations have condemned the law, viewing it as a violation of fundamental rights and a potential source of increased discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.

Critics in Western countries perceive the law as indicative of a shift towards authoritarianism and a move closer to Russia, despite Georgia's historical pro-Western stance.

Georgia has previously experienced mass protests against similar repressive laws, indicating a growing discontent with the government's direction.

President Salome Zourabichvili returned the bill to parliament without signing it, opposing the measures introduced by the ruling party.

Despite the president's refusal to sign, the law is expected to be enacted by the parliament's speaker, Shalva Papuashvili.

This legislation has heightened tensions in Georgia, raising concerns about the country's political direction as parliamentary elections approach.

Violence against the LGBTQ+ community has been prevalent in Georgia, highlighted by recent incidents including the murder of transgender model Kesaria Avramidze.

Georgia's application to join the EU in 2022 has faced setbacks due to the 'foreign influence' law and the recent LGBTQ+ legislation.

The law is part of a broader trend in Georgia, which has seen increasing restrictions on NGOs and a shift away from its pro-Western aspirations since 2012.