Russia‘s Supreme Court has declared what it calls “the international LGBT public movement” an extremist organization and banned its activities throughout the country. The decision was prompted by a request from the Ministry of Justice, even though no such organization exists as a legal entity.
The hearing was held behind closed doors, but journalists were allowed to hear the decision. No one from “the defendant” was present, the court stated. Russia’s constitution was amended three years ago to make clear that marriage means a union between a man and a woman. Same-sex unions are not recognized in that country.
Russia Against the LGBT Community
Following the decision, anyone the state considers an LGBT activist could receive a long prison sentence for participating in an “extremist organization.” Given this new measure, the movement organizers could also receive longer sentences. As a consequence, thousands of people from the LGBT community are already thinking about leaving Russia. In recent years, Russia’s LGBT community has faced great pressure from authorities. In 2013, a law was adopted prohibiting propaganda among minors of non-traditional sexual relations.
Last year, those restrictions were extended to all age groups in Russia. References to LGBT people were removed from books, movies, advertisements, and television shows. Earlier this month, a Russian TV channel removed the color from a rainbow in a South Korean pop video to avoid being accused of violating the “gay propaganda” law.
Under Vladimir Putin, the Kremlin has adopted an ideology centered on conservative thinking and traditional family values. Authorities portray LGBT activism as inherently Western and hostile to Russia. Therefore, pressure on the LGBT community is presented as a means to defend Russian society.
What Will Happen to the LGBT Community in Russia?
The Supreme Court’s decision is effective immediately and, as in previous legislation, any type of advertising that motivates people to join the LGBT movement is prohibited. However, relationships between homosexuals are still permitted. In this case, various LGBT groups have described the measure as out of touch with reality by pointing out the LGBT community as an “extremist organization.” For several years now, Vladimir Putin has warned that, legally, he will never give the green light to gay marriage in his country.
This story was written in Spanish by Miguel Fernandez in Cultura Colectiva News
