Russia’s state Duma gives nod to bill banning LGBTQ 'propaganda'

A bill was approved on Thursday by Russian lawmakers, which notably increases the restrictions made on activities seen as promoting gay rights in the country. This marks another significant step taken by the lawmakers on the country's embattled LGBTQ community.

As per the authorities, the bill expands a ban on “propaganda of non-traditional sexual relations” to minors which was the original version adopted by the Kremlin in 2013. The new iteration given by the government will also be applicable to adults. The discriminatory law proposes a ban to all Russians who think that homosexual relationships are 'normal'.

The bill got approval in Thursday's third and final reading by the State Duma, the lower house of parliament. Now, the bill will get a legal force to it when it will reach the upper house, the Federation Council, and later get the signature of President Vladimir Putin.


Back in 2017, the European Court of Human Rights ruled that Russia’s so-called “gay propaganda law” breaches the European Convention on Human Rights and encourages homophobia.



The new bill outlaws films and theater productions, advertising, media, and online resources and books held to have such “propaganda." Meanwhile, those who will violate the rule will have to pay fines.

If the law is violated by non-residents, then they have to be ready for heavy punishment as they can face exile from Russia. Also, the monetary fine ranges from 100,000 to 2 million rubles ($1,660-$33,000). Foreigners who will violate the law could face 15 days’ detention before expulsion.

FAQs:

1. What is the monetary range of fine for people who will violate the bill?
   People, who will violate the bill, will have to pay a hefty fine ranging from 100,000 to 2 million rubles ($1,660-$33,000).
2. When did the bill get approved by the Russian lawmakers?
   This bill was approved in the third and final reading by the State Duma on Thursday.