Russian anti-gay law prompts rise in homophobic violence

[pampango]

Russia has experienced an upsurge in homophobic vigilantism following the introduction of legislation outlawing "homosexual propaganda" in June, gay and lesbian groups say.

The new laws, which have cast a shadow over the Winter Olympics to be held in Sochi early next year, ban the promotion of "non-traditional sexual relations" among minors.

Activists say the legislation has emboldened rightwing groups who use social media to "ambush" gay people, luring them to meetings and then humiliating them on camera – sometimes pouring urine on them. These groups often act against gay teenagers, several of whom told the Guardian that rising homophobia and vigilante activity force them to lead lives of secrecy.

The Russian LGBT Network said the harassment of gay people was being organised nationally for the first time through groups known as Occupy Gerontophilia and Occupy Paedophilia, who claim to be trying to "reform" homosexuals.

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/sep/01/russia-rise-homophobic-violence

[Peacetrain]

1. Oh what a mess that is in Russia

It seems to be spiraling out of control even more than it was before.

[Jefferson23]

2. This is horrible, disgusting law and so stupid. Unfortunatley it receives substantial support

from Russians.They still have a government and orthodox religion combination at play, it keeps them uneducated and
painfully ignorant.

[shenmue]

3. This can only get worse

Thanks Russia, for moving back to the Dark Ages.

[blkmusclmachine]

4. !

!