The Russian government has banned the Elton John AIDS Foundation, labeling it as "undesirable" for undermining the nation's traditional values. Established in 1992, the foundation has made significant contributions to HIV prevention and education worldwide. The prosecution of associated staff underscores Russia's severe crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights, exacerbated by the recent enactment of anti-LGBTQ+ propaganda laws. These laws have vilified any support for LGBTQ+ causes and led to drastic measures against individuals and organizations advocating for these rights.
The decision means the foundation can no longer operate in Russia and staff associated with the organisation face prosecution.
Established by the iconic gay singer and songwriter in 1992, the Elton John AIDS Foundation works to support HIV prevention, education and treatments.
On Telegram, the office stated that the foundation promotes non-traditional sexual relationships and societal tensions, referring to its activities as propaganda.
In recent years, LGBTQ+ rights have been near totally eroded in Russia under its anti-LGBTQ+ 'propaganda' law, which labels the international LGBT movement as 'extremist'.
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