**Sweden’s Stance on Same-Sex Marriage Raises Concerns in Georgia**
The Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, Shalva Papuashvili, has expressed concern over a statement made by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. According to Papuashvili, Kristersson’s remarks that same-sex marriage is a prerequisite for EU membership contradict the formal requirements for accession.
**EU Integration and Human Rights**
Papuashvili pointed out that within the framework of European integration, Ukraine must regulate same-sex partnerships and ensure full legal protection for the LGBT community. She emphasized that it is essential to clarify whether the requirement for legalizing same-sex marriage is part of Sweden’s official position regarding decision-making on candidate countries.
**A Single EU Member State Can Block Accession**
Given that a single EU member state can block a candidate country’s EU integration process, Papuashvili stressed the importance of clarity from the Swedish Embassy. She stated, “It is concerning that the Swedish Prime Minister has named the legalization of same-sex marriage as a prerequisite for EU membership, which contradicts the formal requirements for accession.”
**Ukraine and the LGBT Community**
In his social media post, Kristersson highlighted the bravery of Ukrainian LGBTQI veterans who are fighting on the front lines against Russian aggression. He emphasized that full legal protection of the rights of all minorities, including the LGBT community, is an important part of Ukraine’s EU accession process.
**A Call for Clarity**
Papuashvili’s statement raises questions about Sweden’s stance on same-sex marriage and its implications for EU candidate countries. As a strong supporter of Ukraine, Sweden will closely monitor the implementation of these rights. However, Papuashvili’s call for clarity suggests that there may be more to this story than meets the eye.
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