Following the Olympic Opening Ceremony, Bulgarian Far-Right Secures Ban on LGBT+ “Propaganda” in Schools

The Bulgarian assembly has implemented a far-right regulation banning LGBT+ "propaganda" in schools, a decision prompted by the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Bulgarian Parliament Takes Bold Action

In a surprising move, the Bulgarian Parliament passed a law on Wednesday, August 7, prohibiting LGBT+ “propaganda” in schools.

The amendment, backed by the far-right Vazrajdane party, was overwhelmingly approved with 159 votes in favor, 22 against, and 13 abstentions.

2024 Paris Olympics Under Scrutiny

This reflects the Bulgarian Parliament’s strong criticism following the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, particularly its “promotion of non-traditional sexual orientations and gender identities different from biological ones”.

The country also criticized the participation of athletes such as boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting, who were perceived as representing “the opposite sex”.

A Law with Dangerous Repercussions

Various associations have voiced concerns over this decision. Radoslav Stoyanov from Helsinki NGO fears the law will hinder the dissemination of scientific information about sexual minorities to students. LevFem NGO warns that it could severely impede efforts to combat school bullying against LGBT+ youth.

As a former communist state, Bulgaria does not recognize same-sex marriages or civil unions and ranks only 38th in Europe in terms of LGBT+ rights, according to the International Lesbian and Gay Association. The implications of this law on the educational environment and human rights are thus deeply troubling.

An Already Criticized Situation

It’s worth noting that in 2023, the European Court of Human Rights condemned Bulgaria for refusing to recognize a lesbian couple’s union performed abroad. This new measure could exacerbate an already dire human rights situation.