In Tbilisi, Georgia, the future of the city’s oldest gay bar, Success, is at risk due to a package of anti-LGBTQ laws proposed by the ruling Georgian Dream party. The laws, which mirror similar legislation in Russia and Hungary, would ban the promotion of same-sex relationships, outlaw sex changes, and prohibit same-sex marriage and adoption. While the laws would not directly target gay bars, they could have broader consequences, such as discouraging LGBTQ gatherings and events and fostering an atmosphere of fear within the community. LGBTQ rights groups, such as Tbilisi Pride, have expressed concerns about the proposed laws and have faced increasing political homophobia in recent years. Despite opposition from the EU and warning signs of decreasing Western influence in Georgia, the ruling party is expected to consider the bills during the current parliamentary session.
