Same-sex marriage officially recognized in Greece

In a historic move, Greece has become the first predominantly Christian Orthodox country to legalize same-sex marriage. The new law, which was voted on Thursday, also grants same-sex couples the right to adopt children. Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, hailed the legislation as a bold step towards eliminating a grave inequality. However, the powerful Greek Orthodox Church strongly opposes the new law, highlighting the division within the country. The bill required a simple majority in the parliament, and although Mr. Mitsotakis championed it, he needed the support of opposition parties to secure its passage due to opposition from many members of his own party. During a parliamentary debate prior to the vote, the prime minister expressed his belief that the reform would bring visibility to marginalized groups and provide a rightful place for many children. LGBTQ organizations in Greece have celebrated the vote as a historic milestone. Among the European Union member states, 15 have already legalized same-sex marriage, and globally, the practice is permitted in 35 countries. Greece's decision to embrace marriage equality sets it apart from its neighboring countries in Southeast Europe, where such laws have not been adopted primarily due to opposition from religious institutions. Supporters of the Greek Orthodox Church staged rallies at Syntagma Square in Athens to voice their dissent, displaying banners, holding crosses, and reciting prayers and passages from the Bible.