Propaganda laws strangles gay activism

Good morning and welcome to this seminar!

Anastasia Smirnova, from the LGBT-network, now has the floor.

If you have any questions, write them in this chat and I will see to that Anastasia and Alexandra (Sasha) will get them.

Right now Alexandra Semenova, from Coming Out, is speaking.

St Petersburg is the stronghold for the LGBT-community in Russia since it seen as the most tolerant city in Russia.

The propaganda law, prohibiting "propaganda" for homosexuality, was recently passed in St Petersburg.

These laws (similar laws have been passed in other parts of Russia as well) are a violation against the freedom of expression.

One LGBT-activist was detained because he carried a sign saying "Homosexuality is illegal" in a demonstration

Time to ask questions!

You are very welcome to ask questions!

Spreading information about homosexuality to minors, is a crime according to this law. This means that young people who have questions and thoughts about sexuality cannot get counselling - because giving information about homosexuality is illegal.