Members of the LGBTQ+ community and supporters celebrate in front of the Greek parliament, after the vote in favour of a bill which approved allowing same-sex civil marriages, in Athens, Greece, February 15, 2024. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki
Greek lawmakers passed a historic bill allowing same-sex civil marriages, prompting celebration among couples like Yolanda Kalantzi and Georgia Ampatzidou, who kissed in Parliament upon hearing the news. The legislation, approved overnight, also grants same-sex couples the right to adopt children, a significant development for families like Kalantzi and Ampatzidou, who now have legal recognition of their relationship and parenting rights.
Kalantzi and Ampatzidou, who traveled a considerable distance to witness the vote, expressed their emotional response and immediate plans for their upcoming wedding in May, already arranging for essential services such as a DJ and photographer. They emphasized the personal significance of the legislation, feeling validated and affirmed in their relationship.
With this bill, Greece becomes one of the first Orthodox Christian countries to legalize same-sex unions, a move hailed by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis as a milestone for human rights and a testament to Greece’s commitment to progressive values. Mitsotakis had urged lawmakers to pass the bill, despite opposition from conservative elements, including the Orthodox Church and some right-wing politicians.
While the law will take a few days to become official, it has already spurred preparations among couples eager to marry, with some announcing their weddings in newspapers and initiating the necessary procedures with local authorities. The legislation has received international recognition and support, with embassies from 28 countries expressing solidarity with Greece in this historic moment.
However, the issue of same-sex marriage remains contentious within Greek society, with differing opinions reflecting a broader societal divide. While proponents view the legislation as a step towards equality and inclusivity, critics, including the Orthodox Church and some conservative voices, express concerns about the redefinition of traditional family values.
Despite past reforms in LGBT+ rights, such as civil partnerships and legal recognition of gender identity, some in the LGBT+ community advocate for further reforms, particularly regarding assisted reproduction methods and surrogate pregnancies, which are not addressed in the current legislation. Nevertheless, many, including pensioner Thimios Tsakonitissome, view the bill as progress towards greater equality and acceptance for same-sex couples in Greece.
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