Our colleagues from the LGBTQ+ group "Vykhod" and the Sphere Foundation have published the third annual report on the situation of LGBTQ+ people in Russia. The study is based on responses from over 6,400 participants from various regions of the country and offers a detailed picture of life for LGBTQ+ individuals under increasing repression.

Despite a slight improvement in psychological well-being and stronger social ties within the queer community compared to 2023, the overall situation remains deeply alarming. Many indicators have returned to 2022 levels, but as the authors emphasize, this is not due to actual improvements — rather, it reflects that people have become even more cautious and withdrawn in order to avoid violence and discrimination. The number of hate incidents and pressure continues to grow, albeit not as sharply as a year ago. General repressive legal articles are increasingly used to target queer individuals, and open LGBTQ+ spaces in the country have been virtually wiped out.

The report places special emphasis on expert perspectives — from human rights defenders, lawyers, activists, and queer media representatives. They highlight:

• The intensified crackdown following the designation of the LGBTQ+ movement as "extremist," including extralegal tactics like fake dates and blackmail
• The vagueness and danger of the "LGBT propaganda" law
• The severe consequences of the trans transition ban: an atmosphere of fear and legal uncertainty

You can read the full report at the link