Quarterly digest LGBTQ+ issues in the Belarusian mass media
The International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT Day) is celebrated on May 17.
Quarterly digest LGBTQ+ issues in the Belarusian mass media.
Apparently, the so-called Belarusian authorities consider in their own way the event, which is highly important for every society that would like to develop, being guided by universal human values.
What kind of results can Belarus boast of on the eve of IDAHOT Day this year?
Judging by the rhetoric of pro-government media and politicians, the word “against” should be replaced with the word “for” in the title of this international day. Since the self-proclaimed authorities are doing everything to incite homophobia, transphobia and biphobia in the country.
We’ve prepared a video review of persecution of LGBTQ+ community in Belarus on the part of the state propaganda and Lukashenka’s regime (see in Russian and English).
In addition to the usual hate speech in the media and political statements, the destruction of Belarusian civil society and the introduction of repressive legislation continued in the 1st quarter of 2022.
Since January 2022, the mere fact that you are a leader or activist of a liquidated or unregistered organization or civil society initiative can lead to imprisonment for up to 2 years under Article 193-1 of the Criminal Code of Belarus.
Discussions on the new Constitution of Belarus also contributed to the incitement of hatred in relation to LGBTQ. Among other, it was proposed to introduce a Constitutional ban on ‘LGBT propaganda’. Fortunately, it did not happen. Apparently, the authorities are afraid of the very mentioning of the LGBT acronym.
Despite the forced emigration of quite a few of Belarusian LGBTQ+ community representatives, we continue our active work, which is aimed at protecting the rights of all people.
We are convinced that the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT Day) will be celebrated as an official state holiday in New Belarus.
Quarterly digest LGBTQ+ issues in the Belarusian mass media.
