Russia Grants Visas to People Supporting 'Traditional Values'
Russia grants visas to foreigners supporting the country's anti-LGBTQ+ policies. More than 1,100 people used this scheme in 2025.
Vladimir Putin's regime uses anti-queer policy as a recruitment tool. Russia actively attracts people from abroad. These people must agree with Russia's so-called 'traditional values'.
In 2025, more than 1,100 foreigners received Russian visas on this basis. They signed a declaration supporting Russian values. This also means accepting anti-LGBTQ+ laws.
Russia has introduced many laws against LGBTQ+ people recently. Homosexuality is not forbidden, but public expression is. In 2023, the Supreme Court declared the 'international LGBTQ+ movement' a terrorist organization. This has major consequences for queer people in Russia.
Attracting like-minded foreigners fits a broader strategy. Putin wants to show his policies have worldwide support. Meanwhile, Russia sends a clear signal to its own citizens. The regime presents itself as protector of conservative Christian values.
Human rights organizations are concerned about this development. They warn Russia wants to expand its influence via like-minded networks abroad. These networks can strengthen anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment in other countries too.
Life grows increasingly difficult for LGBTQ+ people in Russia itself. Many queer Russians fled the country after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. They feared both the war and increasing oppression. The new visa scheme shows Russia is not reducing this oppression. Instead, the regime uses this policy as a political instrument.
Activists urge European countries to be alert. They want governments to investigate visa recipients. They also call for attention to anti-LGBTQ+ ideas spreading via Russian networks in Europe.