rights
Nine Russian LGBTQ groups deemed 'extremist' banned
By Michael K. Lavers at Washington Blade
· May 29, 2026
· 1 min read
Nine LGBTQ groups in Russia have been banned so far this year after authorities deemed them as "extremist." Human Rights Watch on Thursday noted courts in seven regions between March and May banned Coming Out, the LGBT Resource Center, Parni Plus, the Moscow Community Center for LGBT+ Initiatives, I
Why this matters
The banning of nine Russian LGBTQ groups deemed "extremist" highlights the escalating crackdown on LGBTQ rights in Russia. This move is part of a broader pattern of persecution, as evidenced by the Russian Supreme Court's 2023 ruling that labeled the "international LGBT movement" an extremist organization. The designation of ILGA World as an "undesirable" organization in January further demonstrates the Kremlin's efforts to suppress LGBTQ activism and support. The consequences of engaging with "undesirable" groups, including up to six years in prison, underscore the severe risks faced by Russians who advocate for LGBTQ rights or seek support from these organizations. The banning of Parni Plus, an LGBTQ media outlet, also raises concerns about the erosion of freedom of expression and access to information for LGBTQ individuals in Russia. As the international community continues to criticize the Kremlin's actions, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the already vulnerable LGBTQ community in Russia.
About this story
Original reporting by Washington Blade . LGBTQ News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: rights ·
Published: May 29, 2026 ·
Source: Washington Blade ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Nine LGBTQ groups in Russia have been banned so far this year after authorities deemed them as "extremist." Human Rights Watch on Thursday noted courts in seven regions between March and May banned Coming Out, the LGBT Resource Center, Parni Plus, the Moscow Community Center for LGBT+ Initiatives, I
When was this published? This article was first published on May 29, 2026 by Washington Blade and curated for LGBTQ News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Michael K. Lavers at Washington Blade. To learn more about how LGBTQ News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
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