The Russian occupation authorities targeted members of the LGBTQ+ community in Ukraine during the occupation of Kherson in 2022. This was revealed by the Ukrainian public organization Projektor on March 28. The Russian military specifically sought out and targeted Ukrainian LGBTQ+ individuals during the occupation of parts of the Kherson region between March and November 2022. Projektor indicated that the abuses committed by the Russian military against this community could amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity, including gender-based persecution. The report documented instances where Russian authorities forced men to undress at checkpoints and searched for tattoos of a rainbow image, as well as checked phones for gay dating apps. LGBTQ+ victims did not contact Ukrainian law enforcement to report abuse by Russian authorities out of fear of further ridicule.
The report by Projektor highlighted the intensified crackdown on gay rights by Russia following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In December 2022, the Russian State Duma passed legislation banning the public expression of LGBT identity. Furthermore, Russia’s Supreme Court declared the “international LGBT social movement” to be an “extremist organization” and banned its activities. Veronika Plotnikova, the head of the Coordinating Center for Support of Victims and Witnesses of the Prosecutor General’s Office, stated that Ukraine has collected pretrial information on over 128,000 victims of war crimes. The study by Projektor indicated that the Kherson Office of the Attorney General had not investigated any war crimes against LGBTQ+ people living in the occupied territories at the time of the study.
As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, there are concerns about a potential new Russian offensive in May or June. President Zelensky warned about the possibility of a new Russian offensive during this period. Kyiv dismissed reports about Russia’s preparations for an offensive in Kharkiv. The war in Ukraine has had devastating consequences, with almost 1,800 Ukrainian children made orphans as a result of Russia’s war. Security measures in Kyiv are set to be increased following missile strikes in the region. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has resulted in significant humanitarian challenges and a need for continued support from the international community.
The violations against the LGBTQ+ community in Ukraine during the Russian occupation of Kherson serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The targeting of LGBTQ+ individuals by Russian authorities highlights the need for accountability and justice for these communities. It is crucial for the international community to support independent journalism in Ukraine to bring attention to these violations and advocate for the rights of marginalized groups. By supporting organizations like Projektor and raising awareness about these issues, individuals can contribute to the fight against discrimination and human rights abuses in conflict-affected regions.
The impact of the war in Ukraine goes beyond the immediate conflict zone and affects vulnerable populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals who face additional risks and challenges as a result of the conflict. The international community must continue to provide humanitarian assistance and support to those affected by the war, including LGBTQ+ individuals who may be at greater risk of harm. Efforts to document and address violations against the LGBTQ+ community in conflict-affected areas are essential to ensuring accountability and justice for those affected. By standing in solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals in Ukraine and supporting initiatives that promote equality and human rights, individuals can contribute to a more inclusive and just society for all.
