Moscow, In a significant move reinforcing a longstanding crackdown on the LGBTQ+ community, Russia officially banned the “international LGBT movement,” declaring it an extremist group. The decision, handed down by the supreme court in Moscow, further solidifies the Kremlin’s pursuit of ultra-conservative social values under President Vladimir Putin.
The ruling, delivered by Judge Oleg Nefedov, categorizes “the international LGBT public movement and its subdivisions” as extremist, imposing a comprehensive ban on their activities within Russia. The court proceedings occurred behind closed doors, without any defense present, and the judgment did not specify the impact on particular individuals or organizations.
Less than 10 people gathered outside the court during the hearing, reflecting a climate of fear and reluctance to openly discuss LGBTQ+ issues. Ada Blakewell, a journalist, noted, “It shows how scared everyone is… to talk about anything related to LGBTQ people.”
The immediate execution of the order was emphasized by the judge, although some human rights NGOs anticipate bureaucratic delays. Noel Shaida, head of communication at the LGBTQ rights NGO Sphere Foundation, expressed concern, stating, “It’s causing a huge panic because it’s completely unclear who will be prosecuted under this ban.”
If applied to individuals, the “extremist” designation implies potential imprisonment for gay, lesbian, transgender, or queer individuals residing in Russia. Additionally, the ruling opens the door to the criminal prosecution of any group advocating for the rights of these communities within the country.
