Tensions rise in French parliament as final vote on same-sex marriage approaches

April 19, 2013

In France, a parliamentary debate on same-sex marriage was cut off when a lawmaker accused supporters of the measure of “murdering children.” The resulting uproar prompted the speaker to end the session.

When order was restored, the member who had made the charge, Claude Bartolone, apologized for using inappropriate language, but insisted that the marriage law is “a scandal” that will harm young children.

Emotions are running high in France as the final passage of the bill allowing for same-sex legislation approaches. Mass public demonstrations are expected in Paris for April 23, when a final vote is expected.

Opponents of the bill—including Cardinal André Vingt-Trois of Paris—have charged that President Francois Hollande has aggravated tensions by pushing the legislation forward in spite of heavy opposition.

 

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Further information:

• Debate over same-sex marriage heats up in France (ANSA)
• French cardinal: rush to approve same-sex marriage divides society, risks violence (CWN, 4/16)