PINK NEWS: Russian president Vladimir Putin has signed a bill expanding its ability to suppress LGBT media into law.
The nicknamed ‘LGBT propaganda law,’ originally signed in 2013, forbid media for under-18s to promote what officials deemed “non-traditional values,” including same-sex relationships and gender diversity.
Now, after being approved by the Federation Council on 30 November and signed by Putin on Monday (4 December), the country has effectively banned all LGBTQ+ media for Russian citizens of all ages.
Its effects are already being felt in the country, with authorities reportedly cancelling gay pride events and detaining activists, according to Reuters.
Those found in breach of the law can be fined up to 400,000 roubles (£5,400), while organisations can be fined 5 million roubles (£68,500).
Non-nationals can face up to 15 days in prison and expulsion from Russia.
“This bill deprives LGBTI people their right to freedom of expression and endorses their discrimination, risking a rise in hate crimes,” human rights group Amnesty International wrote in a tweet. » | Amelia Hansford | Monday, December 5, 2022
