The Lithuanian parliament has opened discussions of the amendment to the Criminal Code which spells out that criticism of homosexuality should not be viewed as discrimination.

Initiated by a mixed group of parliamentarians, the amendment suggests that “Criticism or discussion of sexual behaviour, sexual practices, convictions and views, or attempts to persuade to change such behaviours, practices, convictions and views, is not to be regarded in itself as sneer, belittlement, discrimination or incitement to discriminate.”

During a vote on Thursday, 47 MPs voted in favour to let the bill through, 15 voted against and 20 abstained.