TBILISI -- Several dozen people have marched in the Georgian capital to mark International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB), despite fears of potential clashes with opponents.

Police in Tbilisi were on high alert on May 17 even after an event commemorating IDAHOTB was canceled to avoid a confrontation with marchers expected to take part in a counterdemonstration supported by the Georgian Orthodox Church.

One of the LGBT demonstrations took place near the prime minister's office, where several dozen people held signs and chanted slogans against homophobia.

As LGBT supporters rallied, hundreds of Georgians marched in support of the church’s call for a rally on the “day of sanctity and strength of the family.”

Several minor clashes were observed by local media, but no major incidents were reported. Read more via REFL