Russia: Supreme Court hits hard to ban «LGBT movement» for «extremism»

Russia is stepping up its conservative engagement by banning the «international LGBT movement and its affiliates» as «extremist» entities, thus imposing severe prison sentences for any public activity associated with what the country calls sexual preferences «non-traditional».

On Thursday, November 30, the Russian Supreme Court issued this radical ruling in just thirteen days, from the filing of the Ministry of Justice’s application to the conclusion of the judgment. This ban concerns the international LGBT+ movement and all its subsidiaries. The trial, held in camera and classified as «secret», took place without the presence of the accused, and the Department of Justice did not specify which entity it was referring to.

This decision, which came into effect «immediately», has concrete consequences, banning any sign of belonging to the LGBT community. This includes the rainbow symbol in the form of sticker, badge, garment, as well as theme nights, parades and gatherings. This is a significant step, because now anyone guilty of «LGBT propaganda» risks not only a hefty fine, but also two-figure minimum prison sentences.

Alongside this decision, it was revealed that a bill restricting abortion is being prepared in Russia. This anti-abortion movement, motivated by declining demographics, is part of a series of conservative measures taken by the Russian government in recent months.

Russia therefore seems to be firmly on a conservative path, marked by social restrictions and legislative changes.

Justine Akolatsey