Earlier this week, the Russian Ministry of Justice sent a proposal to the Supreme Court that would classify an entity as an extremist organization. The proposal labels the so‑called International Civil LGBT Movement as an extremist group on the same footing as terrorist organizations such as the Islamic State and Al Qaeda, as well as neo-Nazi movements. Under this classification, displaying any LGBT symbols in public or publicly showing support for LGBT rights would be illegal, with penalties including prison terms and fines.
Although there is no officially recognized global entity called the International LGBT Civil Movement, Russian officials argue that the move is necessary to end what they describe as incitement of social hatred and religious tensions. They contend that this would violate Russia’s anti‑extremism laws. The final ruling from the Supreme Court is expected on November 30. Ministry representatives stressed that LGBT individuals in Russia enjoy legal protections, and that the measure is intended to curb propaganda about nontraditional sexual relations rather than restrict legitimate rights.
regression
Since the decriminalization of homosexuality in 1993, legal assessments of queer rights in Russia have shifted at times. A notable backward step occurred in the late 1990s regarding mental health and LGBT rights, followed by a renewed emphasis on what is described as protecting traditional family values, a stance repeatedly echoed by the leadership. Public discussions have often linked these positions to broader political narratives and to actions commemorating moments related to the control of territories in eastern Ukraine.
One of the most public changes in recent years is a law commonly referred to as the anti‑propaganda statute. Beginning in late 2022, this law was applied more broadly to all citizens, extending beyond its original focus on minors that had been introduced earlier. It affects the depiction of LGBT themes in books, comics, and films, sometimes requiring publishers to alter or remove content that portrays homosexuality.
In a separate move in mid‑2022, the government signaled restrictions on gender transition procedures. The official argument framed the measure as a protective step for Russian children and described gender transition as a threat to national values. The policy also restricted adoption by those who have undergone gender reassignment and placed constraints on marriage when one partner has changed gender.
Beyond the legal changes, observers note a broader cultural shift driven by state authorities and aligned institutions. Critics argue that the climate discourages open discussion and challenges the rights of LGBT people, while supporters insist the measures protect public morality and social cohesion. The ongoing legal debates and policy adjustments continue to shape the rights landscape for LGBT individuals and influence how issues of identity and family are discussed in Russian society.