#1
Posted: 10/4/13 at 2:27am
A historic ruling in Russia could be the key to finding an end to the ‘gay propaganda’ laws.
Back in March 2009, gay activist Irina Fet protested against the regional homophobic law in Ryazan. She held a placard saying ‘Homosexuality is normal’ and ‘I am proud of my homosexuality’ outside schools and libraries. Arrested, charged and fined 1,500 rubles ($46, €34), Fet was found guilty of informing minors about homosexuality.
While her group Moscow Pride appealed the charge, they lost at a local court. After that, the case was sent to the UN Human Rights Committee to challenge the arrest. On 31 October 2012, the UN committee ruled in their favor, describing the law as ‘discriminatory’ and ‘arbitrary’. They agreed the law went against the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, by violating Fet’s right to freedom of expression and protection from discrimination.
Ryazan regional court today (2 October) has now agreed with the international ruling, and cancelled all prior charges and verdicts.
Considered a Significant Development and Sign of Things to Come
Back in March 2009, gay activist Irina Fet protested against the regional homophobic law in Ryazan. She held a placard saying ‘Homosexuality is normal’ and ‘I am proud of my homosexuality’ outside schools and libraries. Arrested, charged and fined 1,500 rubles ($46, €34), Fet was found guilty of informing minors about homosexuality.
While her group Moscow Pride appealed the charge, they lost at a local court. After that, the case was sent to the UN Human Rights Committee to challenge the arrest. On 31 October 2012, the UN committee ruled in their favor, describing the law as ‘discriminatory’ and ‘arbitrary’. They agreed the law went against the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, by violating Fet’s right to freedom of expression and protection from discrimination.
Ryazan regional court today (2 October) has now agreed with the international ruling, and cancelled all prior charges and verdicts.
Considered a Significant Development and Sign of Things to Come
