The situation for queer individuals in Russia is worsening. A recent law banning the “international LGBT movement” effectively criminalizes online content and public discussions about LGBTQ+ issues.
Some examples:
▪️ Duolingo, a popular language app, is being probed for “LGBT propaganda” because it features same-sex couples in its lessons.
▪️ An online bookstore removed over 250 books by renowned authors like Oscar Wilde and Stephen King to avoid violating the ban.
▪️ Several individuals have already faced convictions under the new law, simply for posting pictures of rainbow flags online.
The result? A chilling silencing effect.
Any hint at queerness can get you in trouble with the law. As a result, LGBTQ+ people are censoring themselves heavily to avoid state repression.