Greece breaks ground as first Orthodox nation to legalise same-sex marriage

Greece's parliament has shattered traditional norms by legalising same-sex marriage and adoption, positioning the nation as a pioneer among Orthodox countries. 

The historic decision, championed by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the New Democracy party, comes despite strong opposition from the influential Orthodox Church. The parliament approved a bill that not only legalizes same-sex marriage but also adoption by same-sex families.

The bill received overwhelming support with 176 votes in favour out of 245 MPs present, following two days of impassioned debates. Prime Minister Mitsotakis hailed the decision as a "milestone for human rights" and a reflection of Greece as a "progressive and democratic country, passionately committed to European values."

Despite strong opposition from the influential Orthodox Church, the reform prevailed with support from opposition parties, including the leftist Syriza party led by Stefanos Kasselakis, an openly gay figure. The clash between tradition and progressive ideals underscores a societal shift towards acknowledging and protecting the rights of the LGBTQ community.

Stefanos Kasselakis's personal experiences added a human dimension to the debates, emphasising the real-world impact of legal inequalities on same-sex couples and their families. The resounding approval of the bill signifies a departure from traditional norms within the Orthodox community.

As rainbow flags waved in front of the parliament building in central Athens, LGBTQ families celebrated a historic moment. The reform addresses critical issues faced by these families, providing legal recognition and rights previously denied.

Greece's journey towards inclusivity began in 2015 with the legalisation of civil unions for same-sex couples. The latest reform, marking Greece as the first Orthodox nation to allow same-sex marriages, sends ripples of change beyond its borders, challenging other conservative societies to reevaluate their stance on LGBTQ rights.

"This is a landmark for human rights, reflecting today's Greece—a progressive, and democratic country, passionately committed to European values," proclaimed Prime Minister Mitsotakis, encapsulating the essence of a momentous step towards equality in the Orthodox world.