Greece has become the first Orthodox Christian country to legalise same-sex marriage despite opposition from the church and some politicians. It has also become the first country in southeastern Europe to have passed legislation legalizing same-sex marriage.
The measure was passed by parliament late on February 15 with 176 lawmakers from across the political spectrum voting in favor, and 76 against. Two abstained and 46 were not present. The vote, which came after two days of debate and weeks of public reactions, will now legally allow same-sex couples to adopt children as well.
“This is a milestone for human rights, reflecting today’s Greece—a progressive, and democratic country, passionately committed to European values,” said Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who had championed the legislation. He faced resistance from within his own center-right New Democracy party but was joined by politicians from other parties in the vote.
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