A new report from an independent Russian news outlet suggests that Russia’s government is working on a large-scale electronic database to track LGBTQ+ individuals. According to Latvia-based Meduza, anonymous sources from Russia’s Interior Ministry claim the initiative has been in the works for some time.
The system is reportedly designed to register those identified as part of the so-called “international LGBT movement,” which the Russian government officially classified as “extremist” in 2023.
Escalating Crackdown on LGBTQ+ Communities
In recent months, Russia has intensified its repression of LGBTQ+ individuals under its anti-propaganda law. This has resulted in the arrests of bar staff and venue owners, the detention of over 50 club-goers, and the forced removal of inclusive content from the language-learning platform Duolingo. Additionally, the children’s cartoon My Little Pony was classified as 18+, and a university expelled a gay student for posting makeup videos.
In January, a man was fined for joking that he “started” the international LGBTQ+ rights movement, while in December, another individual accused of running an LGBTQ+ travel agency was found dead in his cell.
Government Confirmation and Further Allegations
United Russia party member Dmitry Chukreev confirmed the existence of LGBTQ+ records, telling Meduza, “Police records have been kept since the Supreme Court ruling came into force. Everyone is being recorded and put on record.”
Additionally, sources claim that authorities are planning a public registry for sex workers, which would allow individuals to check someone’s history, including violations related to so-called “gay propaganda.”
Challenges in Implementation
Despite these reports, the database has yet to be fully realised due to a lack of funding and resources, exacerbated by Russia’s ongoing war with Ukraine.
Meduza’s report also revealed that Russian officials have labelled LGBTQ+ communities as “paramilitary groups” allegedly engaged in “dehumanization” and “devil worship.”
Security forces have reportedly seized reservation databases from queer-friendly venues, taken fingerprints and mouth swabs from patrons, and forced attendees at LGBTQ+ events to state their registered addresses on camera.
Growing Concerns for LGBTQ+ Rights in Russia
The reports of systematic tracking and suppression have heightened concerns among human rights groups. Activists warn that this latest move could mark a dangerous escalation in Russia’s crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights.
