Greece has become the first Orthodox Christian country to legalise same-sex marriage despite opposition from the church and some politicians.
The measure was passed by parliament late on Thursday with 176 lawmakers from across the political spectrum voting in favour, and 76 against. Two abstained and 46 were not present.
The bill required a simple majority to pass in the 300-member parliament.
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.
People in favour of the vote celebrated and cheered on the streets of the capital, Athens, while those opposed, including many identifying with the Orthodox Church, rallied in protest. They displayed banners, held crosses, read prayers and sang passages from the Bible.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who had championed the legislation, faced resistance from within his own centre-right New Democracy party but was joined by politicians from other parties in the vote.
“People who have been invisible will finally be made visible around us. And with them, many children [will] finally find their rightful place,” Mitsotakis told lawmakers before the vote.
“The reform that we are legislating today … will make the life of some of our fellow citizens that much better without – and I emphasise this – taking away anything from the lives of the many,” said Mitsotakis, adding that this would add Greece to the list of 35 nations that have already legislated on same-sex marriage.
READ MORE FROM SOURCE - https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/2/16/greece-first-orthodox-christian-country-to-legalise-same-sex-marriage
He has spoken of the "terrible human cost of the conflict in the Middle East since the Hamas terrorist attack".
The Prince of Wales says there is a "desperate need for increased humanitarian support to Gaza" and for hostages to be released.
His statement came as he visited the British Red Cross in London.
It's understood the government had been briefed about the prince's statement and his visits, via the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
READ MORE FROM SOURCE - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-68343334
The king has been diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace has announced.
The diagnosis was made recently while Charles, 75, underwent treatment at the London Clinic for a benign enlarged prostate.
In a statement, Buckingham Palace said: “During the king’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.
“His majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties.
Read more at Source - https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2024/feb/05/king-charles-diagnosed-with-cancer-buckingham-palace-announces
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