Greece’s parliament faces divide ahead of same-sex marriage vote

·

On Wednesday, February 14, a heated discussion took place in Greek Parliament in Athens regarding the same-sex marriage bill.

According to Ekathimerini, the bill is set to be voted on today. As requested by Greece’s left-wing main opposition party, SYRIZA, and the coalition formed by the far-right party, the Spartans and the religious nationalist party Niki, the vote will take place by roll call.

If the same-sex marriage bill is approved, it will allow same-sex couples full parental rights, however, male partners would not be allowed to seek children born in Greece through surrogacy.

In Parliament on Wednesday, tensions rose following the anticipated internal dissent among New Democracy (ND) and PASOK with the upcoming vote, with potential unexpected developments from other parties. Archbishop Hieronymus also joined the discussion, urging for a named vote.

Despite there being plenty of support for the bill, which will promote marriage equality for all Greek citizens regardless of sexual orientation, there were objections and confrontations between different people and parties involved in the discussion.

Akis Skertsos
Akis Skertsos. Photo: Ekathimerini.

“The society is changing and evolving, with or without the parliament’s permission,” State Minister Akis Skertsos emphasised.

“We call on ND lawmakers to vote for marriage equality, not against our political beliefs or social tradition, but precisely because we believe in tradition and social cohesion.”

The bill was revealed to be supported by New Democracy, SYRIZA, PASOK, New Left and Plefsi Eleftheras (Course of Freedom).

The far-right party Greek Solution, Spartans and Niki and communist KKE oppose it.

Despite the Greek church’s opposition to the bill, if the bill is passed, it would make Greece the first majority Orthodox Christian country to legalise same-sex marriage.

Source: Ekathimerini.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Pharos Alliance to present parent seminar on raising children bilingually

Pharos Alliance continues its work in revitalising the use of Modern Greek in Melbourne, guided by a strategic plan.

Integration and political intervention of Australians of Greek ancestry

Tamis proceed with a coded, highly unbiased assessment of the social integration and political intervention of Australians of Greek ancestry.

Naxos ranked among Europe’s best beach destinations

The Cycladic island of Naxos has secured a spot among Europe’s top beach destinations according to a recent reader poll.

From West to East: The remarkable Greek odyssey of Lafcadio Hearn

Patrick Lafcadio Hearn was born on the island of Santa Maura (now more commonly known as Lefkada) in the dark wine Ionian Sea on 27 June 1850.

Sydney accountant Michael Kypreos set to make history on Australia’s senior tennis team

Michael Kypreos is the first Greek Australian selected for the national veterans team in the 50+ category. Read more here.

You May Also Like

His Eminence Archbishop Makarios to preside over liturgy for Ecumenical Patriarch’s nameday

The Ecumenical Patriarch's nameday will be marked on June 11 by His Eminence Archbishop Makarios at the Cathedral of the Annunciation of our Lady in Sydney.

Cyprus Community of NSW presents its development plans for The Cyprus Club in Stanmore

The Board of the Cyprus Community of NSW has released its proposed development plans for The Cyprus Club in Stanmore.

Greece launches operations at new Israeli built pilot training facility

Greece has begun operations at a brand-new international pilot training facility that was jointly developed by Israel and Greece.