Skepticism is always appropriate when drastic measures against minorities are reported. In the case of Russia’s classification of the LGBTQ+ community as “extremist,” it’s worth taking a closer look at the facts. This article serves as a fact check to shed light on the matter.
Statement-LGBTQ+:
“LGBTQ+” is an acronym that represents various sexual orientations and gender identities. Each letter represents a specific group:
- L is for Lesbian : women who are emotionally and/or sexually attracted to other women.
- G stands for Gay : men who are emotionally and/or sexually attracted to other men. Sometimes the term is also used as an umbrella term for homosexual people.
- B stands for Bisexual : People who are attracted to people of both genders.
- T is for transgender : people whose gender identity does not match the sex they were assigned at birth.
- Q stands for Queer or Questioning : “Queer” is often used as a collective term for all people who are not heterosexual or cisgender (identity corresponds to birth gender). “Questioning” refers to people who are still unsure about their sexual orientation or gender identity.
- The plus sign (+) serves to expand the inclusivity of the acronym and represents other sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions not directly covered by the previous letters, such as pansexual, asexual, intersex, and many more.
Taken together, “LGBTQ+” represents a diverse community of people who do not exclusively identify as heterosexual and/or cisgender. The term emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and recognition of the diverse forms of sexuality and gender identity.
Origin and confirmation of the verdict in Russia
Fact: The Supreme Court of Russia has classified the LGBTQ+ community as “extremist.” The decision followed a request from the Russian Ministry of Justice, Russian news agency Interfax reported.
Analysis: This decision is part of a broader trend in Russia that is increasingly restricting LGBTQ+ rights. This decision has far-reaching consequences as it affects not just a single organization but an entire social group.
The reactions and their effects
Fact: The decision was criticized internationally by human rights organizations. It is feared that the classification will significantly complicate the work of LGBTQ+ organizations in Russia.
Analysis: The ruling could lead to an increase in discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ people by creating a hostile environment and legitimizing hate speech.
The broader context
Fact: Russia's crackdown on LGBTQ+ people has intensified since the conflict in Ukraine in 2022. The government presents itself as an opponent of the supposed “decadence of the West” and often justifies its actions with the protection of children.
Analysis: These justifications follow a pattern of stigmatization and marginalization of LGBTQ+ people and serve as a pretext for repressive measures.
Conclusion: A worrying trend
This fact check shows that the classification of the LGBTQ+ community as extremist in Russia is real and worrying. This is a move that massively undermines the human rights and safety of LGBTQ+ people in Russia. In a world that is increasingly striving for tolerance and equality, this is a dangerous step backwards.
Source: Interfax
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Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )