Measure, which prohibits “propaganda” of non-traditional sexual orientation, generates protests and concerns about LGBTQIA+ rights
The new legislation prohibits the “propaganda, promotion or incitement” of sexual orientation or gender identity that differs from “generally accepted and established notions in the Bulgarian legal tradition” about relationships between people of the opposite sex. The definition of “non-traditional sexual orientation” is described as any emotional, romantic or sexual attraction that does not fit into heterosexual norms.
The law’s passage sparked protests in Bulgaria’s capital Sofia, where LGBT+ activists and their allies took to the streets to express their outrage. The Deystvie group criticized the measure, comparing it to restrictive policies adopted by Russia, which has intensified restrictions on LGBT+ rights in recent years. “Bulgaria is following in Russia’s footsteps,” said Denitsa Lyubenova, a lawyer for Deystvie, who also warned of a potential “witch hunt” against LGBT+ education efforts in schools.
Human rights organisations and feminist groups have also spoken out against the law. The organisation LevFem has called the legislation a “hate law”, arguing that it makes schools even more dangerous for LGBT+ teenagers by denying them access to necessary information and support during a critical time in their lives.
The Bulgarian Helsinki Committee, a human rights group, has called on lawmakers to reconsider the amendments, saying the new law could have negative consequences for the rights and safety of LGBT+ youth in the country.
By Ezatamentchy
Source: Maxima
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