Russia’s LGBTQ+ community faces intensified crackdowns, with activists fleeing persecution after extremist designations. Learn about the challenges they endure.
Over a year after Russia's Supreme Court declared the promotion of LGBTQ+ rights as extremist, activists report heightened fear and intimidation. Under President Vladimir Putin, LGBTQ+ rights have faced increasing restrictions for over a decade, a trend exacerbated since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Framing the war as a proxy battle with the West, Putin has linked it to the protection of Russia's "traditional family values."
Despite his insistence that Russia does not discriminate against LGBTQ+ individuals, Putin has condemned what he calls "perversions leading to degradation." Legislative measures, such as the prohibition of public LGBTQ+ representation and gender-affirming care, have further marginalized the community. In November 2023, the Supreme Court labeled the "international LGBT movement" as extremist, paving the way for six-year prison terms for those associated with it.
The crackdown has forced many activists to flee. Gela Gogishvili, a pharmacist, and Haoyang Xu, a Chinese student, fled Russia after facing accusations of spreading LGBTQ+ propaganda. Xu was detained and threatened with deportation, while Gogishvili was fined. Both eventually sought asylum in France. Gogishvili expressed concern for those still in Russia, saying, "I'm scared for the queer community that remains."
Raids on LGBTQ+ spaces have intensified. In late 2023, police targeted gay bars and drag shows in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other cities. Activists and allies have faced charges for displaying symbols like the rainbow flag. Human rights lawyer Max Olenichev revealed that even individuals unaffiliated with the LGBTQ+ community have been accused under these laws.
For activists remaining in Russia, life has become precarious. Olga Baranova, head of the Moscow Community Center for LGBT+ Initiatives, noted that fear of six-year prison sentences deters many. Activists like Vladimir and Ikar work underground, offering legal aid while navigating threats of violence. Online platforms have become vital for community support as physical gatherings grow riskier.
The transgender community, already vulnerable, has been hit particularly hard. Access to gender-affirming care is virtually nonexistent, and trans individuals face increased harassment, blackmail, and employment discrimination. Anna, a 25-year-old transgender woman, relies on costly international advice for hormonal therapy. Despite support from friends, she avoids disclosing her identity at work, fearing job loss.
Some, like Yulia, a mid-40s transgender woman, choose to stay, viewing their presence as a statement of strength and normalization. However, with bans on LGBTQ+ representation in media and escalating rhetoric from officials, the future remains uncertain. Activists fear the next generation will grow up in a culture that vilifies their identities.
The crackdown has cast a shadow over LGBTQ+ lives in Russia, forcing many into hiding while others continue to resist under dire circumstances.
(This article is a reworked version of a PTI feed.)