Georgia Withdraws from Istanbul Convention amid Anti-LGBTQ+ Protests

EU Expresses Concern over Georgia's Withdrawal from Istanbul Convention

The European Union (EU) has expressed concern over Georgia's withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention, a key treaty aimed at protecting women and girls from violence.

In June 2022, the Georgian parliament voted to withdraw from the convention, citing concerns that it promoted "gender ideology" and threatened traditional family values.

The decision sparked protests from LGBTQ+ rights groups and civil society organizations, who condemned Georgia's move as a setback for gender equality and human rights.

Reasons for Georgia's Withdrawal

According to its supporters, the Istanbul Convention:

* Obliges governments to criminalize marital rape, stalking, female genital mutilation, and other forms of violence against women * Provides protection and support services for victims of violence * Promotes gender equality and challenges harmful gender stereotypes

Opponents of the convention, including the Georgian Orthodox Church, argued that:

* It undermined traditional family values and promoted same-sex marriage * It violated parental rights and posed a threat to children's safety * It was not in line with Georgian cultural and religious norms

EU Response

The EU has strongly criticized Georgia's withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention.

* EU Commissioner for Equality Helena Dalli called it a "disappointing step backwards" and urged Georgia to reconsider its decision. * The European Parliament passed a resolution condemning Georgia's withdrawal and called on the government to reverse its decision.

The EU has also warned that Georgia's withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention could affect its prospects of joining the bloc.

Impact on LGBTQ+ Rights

Georgia's withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals in the country.

* The convention includes provisions that protect transgender and intersex people from discrimination and violence. * Without the convention, LGBTQ+ individuals may have fewer legal protections and may face increased discrimination. * Human rights groups have called on the Georgian government to take steps to ensure the safety and rights of LGBTQ+ people.