Russia decides to continue same-sex ban law. Propaganda about homosexuality in writing or in films is punishable by heavy fines. It was decided to continue the law passed by the Duma, the Russian parliament, in 2013. The law continues with the full support of all 397 members.
US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken has accused Russian law of defying human rights. The bill was introduced in the Russian parliament with the preamble as a response to Blinken mocking opposition from arch-enemies of the United States. Russian policy has been criticized as regressive at a time when homosexuals are not considered abnormal.
Critics joke that many Russian classics will have to be banned if the law goes into effect. Human rights activists say Vladimir Putin’s political goals are behind the move to deprive a people of their sexual freedom.
The extension of the law in Russia comes as Qatar is criticized for its stance on homosexuality. Seven European countries that came to Qatar for the World Cup protested Qatar’s personal laws, including the criminalization of homosexuality, which violated human rights. The move to protest by wearing One Love armbands was banned by FIFA.
Putin’s government says the law is meant to promote “traditional values” in Russia. The law also prohibits the disclosure of this information to persons 18 years of age and older. The Duma, the lower house of Russia’s parliament, approved the bill on Thursday. The bill will now go to the Federation Council, the upper house. The law will enter into force after President Putin signs it.
The law prescribes various punishments for homosexuals. Foreign citizens who commit this crime will be expelled from Russia. The fines range from 100,000 to 2 million rubles ($1,660-$33,000). For certain violations, foreigners can be detained for 15 days before deportation.
