Rosalind Evans
In a sweeping and historic move, the Russian Supreme Court has declared LGBTQ+ activism illegal, marking a significant escalation in the crackdown on homosexual and transgender rights in an increasingly conservative nation. This decision came as a blow to the LGBTQ+ community and their advocates, intensifying concerns about the growing restrictions under President Vladimir Putin’s regime, which has been championing “traditional family values” for over a decade.
The Russian Supreme Court’s ruling on Thursday effectively outlaws LGBTQ+ activism, representing the most severe action yet against gay and transgender rights advocates in Russia. According to a statement from the Ministry of Justice, the authorities identified “signs and expressions of extremist nature” within an LGBTQ+ “movement” operating in Russia, accusing it of “inciting social and religious discord.” However, the Ministry provided no detailed evidence to support these claims. The court declared the “movement” extremist in its verdict and banned it across Russia.
The hearing was conducted behind closed doors without any representation from the accused. Many human rights activists have pointed out that the lawsuit was targeted against the “international LGBT civil movement,” which is not a specific entity but a vague and broad definition. This generalization could allow Russian authorities to target any individual or group deemed part of this “movement.”
“Even though the Ministry of Justice claims to designate a nonexistent organization, ‘the international LGBT civil movement’, as extremist, in practice, it could happen that Russian authorities, with this judicial ruling in hand, apply it against active LGBTQ+ initiatives in Russia, considering them part of this civil movement,” explained Max Olenichev, a human rights lawyer working with the Russian LGBTQ+ community, in comments to The Associated Press before the verdict was issued.
Several LGBTQ+ activists reported attempts to participate in the legal process, arguing that it impacted their rights, but the court denied them. The Ministry of Justice has not responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit.
This landmark decision by Russia’s Supreme Court marks a troubling milestone in the repression of LGBTQ+ rights, reflecting a growing conservative shift in the country. The ruling not only silences LGBTQ+ activism but also threatens to marginalize further and oppress the community. As Russia continues to emphasize traditional values under Putin’s rule, the international community and human rights organizations remain watchful and concerned about the future of LGBTQ+ rights in Russia.
