Page 16 - RusRPTFeb24

Eighteen months ago, everything seemed very clear. War may have destroyed lives, upended plans, and deprived people of their homes, but it also provided an unshakable moral foundation for international unity. Now, while this clarity may remain for individuals, it’s no longer a foundation for a broader coming together. Instead, it’s now a shattered mirror where each piece reflects something independently of the others.
We should be striving to retain unity when it comes to what is most important to us, despite social and political turmoil. For the moment, though, it feels as if we’re living through the darkest hour.
2.5 Russian court rules LGBT rainbow flag “extremist” for first time
A woman in Russia’s Saratov region faces charges for the first time ever of "demonstrating an extremist organisation’s symbols" after posting an image of the LGBT’s rainbow flag on Instagram, Meduza reported on January 19.
Russian recently beefed up its anti-gay laws to make “promoting” alternative sexualities illegal and has been cracking down on LGBT groups.
The potential consequences include a fine of up to RUB2,000 ($23) or up to 15 days in jail, with a repeat offence classified as a felony, carrying a possible four-year prison sentence.
The Supreme Court's ruling, previously held behind closed doors, has now been disclosed, recognizing the "LGBT Movement" as an "extremist
16 RUSSIA Country Report February 2024 www.intellinews.com