21:47, 14 June 2019

Patriarchate and "Georgian March" speak against LGBT action in Tbilisi

A participant of the LGBT action in Tbilisi. May 2017. Photo: REUTERS/David Mdzinarishvili

The Georgian Patriarchate and the leader of the "Georgian March" movement have called on the authorities not to admit the LGBT march in Tbilisi, which, in their opinion, will cause a "broad popular unrest." However, the organizers of the "Tbilisi Pride" March have assured that the action will take place.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that the "Tbilisi Pride" announced the "March of Dignity" and a series of events for LGBT people scheduled for June 18-23 in Tbilisi. The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) stated they would not be able to protect marchers against possible provocations and attacks.

In May this year, Georgian LGBT activists refused from their actions on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, because of the risk of conflicts with opponents of LGBT people.

The Georgian Patriarchate has treated the LGBT march in the country as "absolutely unacceptable." "The way of life pursued by LGBT people is sinful and contrary both the Christianity and moral values in general," the "News-Georgia" quotes the Georgian clergy as stating.

Sandro Bregadze, the leader of the "Georgian March" movement, has urged the ruling "Georgian Dream" Party to speak out against the LGBT march. In his opinion, this action will lead to "people's unrest."

This article was originally published on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’ on June 14, 2019 at 04:24 pm MSK. To access the full text of the article, click here.