Bar managers jailed for LGBT+ “extremism”

The managers of a bar in Russia's Urals region have been placed in pre-trial detention “Extremism” A court in the city of Orenburg announced on Wednesday the latest example of the growing repression of sexual minorities, LGBT+.

The court decided “Imprisonment of two accused persons”In a telegram, the court noted that the artistic director and the manager of Bose Bar will be remanded at least. “May 18, 2024”. Pre-trial detention is usually formally extended until the trial verdict in Russia. The Russian Supreme Court imposed the ban in November “Extremism” Movement “International” LGBT+.

“This is the first such criminal case in Russia since the Supreme Court's decision to classify the LGBT movement as extremists”Defense activist Ekaterina Missolina welcomed “Traditional Values” Vladimir Putin argued.

According to the prosecutor, “During the investigation, it was confirmed that the accused, who have a non-traditional sexual orientation, (…) support the views and activities of the International LGBT Public Association, which is banned in our country”. According to officials, the two accused face up to ten years in prison.

Since 2013, a law has been banned in Russia “propaganda” of “Unconventional Sexual Relations” Aimed at minors.

Following a general upheaval in society after the Russian attack on Ukraine, the law was significantly expanded to ban all types by the end of 2022. “propaganda” LGBT+ in media, internet, books and movies.

Then in November 2023, the Russian Supreme Court banned it “International LGBT Movement”Opens the door to heavy prison sentences.

In recent weeks, several Russians have been fined for posting photos of rainbow flags online or, in the case of two women, for posting a video of themselves kissing. .