Civil Liberties

Russian Lawmaker Says Anti-Gay Law Will Still Apply to Olympics

Doesn't see how government can just suspend

|

At least one Russian lawmaker has spoken out against Russia's promise to the International Olympic Committee that 2014 Sochi Winter Olympic athletes and tourists will not be affected by Russia's "gay propaganda" ban, according to a Tuesday Gay Star News report.

Russia's strong anti-LGBT sentiment — including the new law that outlaws and punishes the spreading of information about "non-traditional sexual behavior" to minors — has recently been called into question, as the country prepares to host the games.

Last week, the IOC announced that Russian officials said the propaganda legislation "will not affect those attending or taking part in the Games."