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Protested after classifying the LGBTQ movement as “extremist”: Russian activists in 2020

Photo: AP

Russian authorities have classified two bar operators in custody for LGBTQ “extremism” as “extremists and terrorists.” According to a statement from the Russian financial regulator, which is available to the AFP news agency, 28-year-old Diana Kamilianova and 21-year-old Alexander Klimov were placed on the list of "terrorists and extremists" before their trial.

After a raid on the bar in Orenburg on March 9th, a court last week temporarily remanded the manager and the artistic director of the bar until mid-May on “extremism” allegations. In Russia, however, pre-trial detention is usually repeatedly extended until the trial is completed.

Up to ten years in prison possible

According to the public prosecutor's office, investigations against the two suspects revealed that they were "people with non-traditional sexual orientation" who also "supported" the "views and activities" of the international LGBTQ movement, which is banned in Russia. If convicted, they face up to ten years in prison, according to official information. The English abbreviation LGBTQ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer.

Last December, Russian police raided several bars and nightclubs frequented by homosexuals in Moscow. A sauna that was only accessible to men was also searched. Uniformed officers reportedly entered the clubs under the pretext of looking for drugs. There were also arrests. An eyewitness reported that the police took photos of the guests' identification documents. The apparently coordinated raids took place shortly after the “international LGBT movement” was banned by the Russian judiciary.

A law in Russia has banned LGBTQ “propaganda” against minors since 2013. Since the Russian offensive in Ukraine began in February 2022, laws have been tightened and now prohibit any depiction of “non-traditional” relationships in the media, books, films and the internet. In November 2023, Russia's Supreme Court classified the "international LGBTQ movement" as extremist, clearing the way for criminal prosecution.

jpa/AFP