Russia Bans Nine LGBTQ+ Support Groups as 'Extremist'

Russian authorities have banned nine groups that help LGBTQ+ people. Human Rights Watch reported this on May 28, 2026. The groups are now called 'extremist' by the Russian government.

These groups did important work. They documented human rights abuses against LGBTQ+ people. They shared information and gave legal help. They also provided medical support to LGBTQ+ people in Russia.

This is not the first time Russia has done this. In 2023, the Russian Supreme Court made a big decision. The court banned the so-called 'International LGBT Movement' as extremist. Human Rights Watch called this decision legally and factually wrong. There is no single international LGBT movement. It is a large and diverse global human rights cause.

After that 2023 decision, things got worse. Russian authorities started targeting more civil society organizations. Many groups that support LGBTQ+ people have now been shut down or criminalized.

The goal seems clear. Russia wants to silence people who speak up for LGBTQ+ rights. The government also wants to stigmatize LGBTQ+ people and their supporters. Being part of these banned groups can now lead to criminal charges.

Human Rights Watch is very concerned. The organization says these bans make life much more dangerous for LGBTQ+ people in Russia. It is now harder to get help or information. People who provide support risk going to prison.

LGBTQ+ rights in Russia have been shrinking for years. In 2013, Russia passed a law against so-called 'gay propaganda.' Since then, conditions have become much harder. Many LGBTQ+ Russians have left the country. Those who stay face discrimination and violence.

Human Rights Watch is calling on Russian authorities to stop these bans. The organization says the bans violate international human rights law. Everyone has the right to form groups and speak freely. These rights apply to LGBTQ+ people too.

The situation in Russia is being watched closely by human rights groups around the world. They say the world must not stay silent while these rights are taken away.