The Kaliningrad region passed a bill Thursday to forbid “homosexual propaganda” and impose fines for the distribution of information on same-sex relationships as well as pedophilia, RIA-Novosti reported Thursday.
The bill, which needs the governor’s signature to become law, mirrors similar legislation adopted in St. Petersburg in March outlawing the dissemination of information on homosexuality to minors.
The Kaliningrad bill, drafted by regional United Russia Deputy Oleg Bolychev, would impose fines of 3,000 to 5,000 on individuals and 500,000 to 1 million rubles on organizations convicted of engaging in the promotion of homosexuality.
A countrywide bill stipulating fines for homosexual propaganda nationwide is pending approval by the State Duma. The initiative has spurred a wave of discontent among gay activists, who have taken to the streets in protest.
A Duma discussion of that bill was scheduled for Tuesday but delayed amid clashes between opponents and Russian Orthodox activists.
Related articles:
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.