Russian security forces conducted raids on gay clubs and bars across Moscow on Friday night, less than 48 hours after the country’s highest court deemed the “global LGBTQ+ movement” an extremist organization. The police, claiming a drug raid pretext, searched various venues in the capital, including a nightclub, a male sauna, and an LGBTQ+-friendly bar. Witnesses reported document checks and photographs taken by security services. Managers reportedly alerted patrons before the police arrived.
This follows the Supreme Court’s decision to label Russia’s LGBTQ+ “movement” as extremist, part of a decade-long crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights under President Vladimir Putin. The ruling, responding to a Justice Ministry lawsuit, targets a non-official movement, potentially enabling authorities to suppress any individuals or groups associated with it. Several LGBTQ+ venues, such as St. Petersburg’s Central Station, have already closed in response to the decision.
Activists argue the ruling effectively bans organized efforts to defend LGBTQ+ rights. Prior to the decision, leading Russian human rights groups contested the discriminatory nature of the lawsuit, but LGBTQ+ activists were denied participation in the case. Since 2013, when the “gay propaganda” law restricting LGBTQ+ rights was enacted, Russia has consistently implemented anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, including outlawing same-sex marriage in 2020 and passing laws against gender transitioning procedures and gender-affirming care in 2023.
Despite international criticism, Russian authorities deny LGBTQ+ discrimination. The recent developments further strain the human rights landscape, prompting concerns among LGBTQ+ individuals about potential targeting and leading some to contemplate leaving the country. Rights advocates view these measures as attempts to divert attention from broader issues within Russia.