More than 100 people have been convicted of LGBTQ+ ‘extremism’ in Russia

Russian authorities have convicted more than 100 people of LGBTQ+ “extremism”. 

Under Russia’s anti-LGBTQ+ law, the so-called international public LGBT movement was deemed to be an extremist group. 

The law, which effectively criminalises all forms of LGBTQ+ activism, came into effect in January 2024. Since then, Russian courts have handed down 101 “extremism-related” convictions for participation in the “international LGBT movement” or for displaying its supposed symbols, Human Rights Watch reported. 

It is thought that 98 cases involved administrative or other minor offences, with the rest for criminal liability. 

‘They are flagrantly violating Russians’ rights to free expression’ 

Hugh Williamson, director of the Europe & Central Asia division of Human Rights Watch, said: “Russian authorities weaponise and misuse the justice system as a tool in their draconian crusade to enforce ‘traditional values’ and marginalise and censor LGBT people. They are flagrantly violating Russians’ rights to free expression, association and non-discrimination.”

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