Russian Supreme Court Bans ‘LGBT Movement’ and Labels Activism as ‘Extremist’

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – The Russian Supreme Court, in a lawsuit with no defendants, has ruled in favor of designating the “international LGBT social movement” as extremist.

After a closed-door hearing on November 30, the Russian Supreme Court approved a Justice Ministry request to label the “international LGBT social movement” as extremist. This decision, which prohibits its activities in the country, is viewed by rights groups as a move allowing the government to crack down on gay and transgender people.

Earlier this month, the Justice ministry filed a lawsuit, asserting that authorities had identified “signs and manifestations of an extremist nature” within an LGBTQ “movement” operating in Russia.

The Supreme Court conducted closed-door hearings, and the case had no defendant. Despite attempts by some LGBTQ activists to participate in the lawsuit, citing its relevance to their rights, the court rejected their involvement.

Aside from the potential threats of shutting down LGBT organizations and arresting gay and transgender individuals, activists express concerns that the ruling might lead to the classification of internationally recognized LGBT symbols, such as the rainbow, as “extremist.”

The recent ruling is part of a series of setbacks for LGBT rights in Russia. President Vladimir Putin expanded the scope of a 2013 law last year, which initially banned the distribution of “gay propaganda” among children but was broadened to include people of all ages. Political analysts suggest that Putin is targeting the LGBT community and other minorities to cater to his conservative base in anticipation of the upcoming presidential election in March.

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