Keep calm and Coming Out: LGBTQ+ support in Russia

The year 2024 has been yet another test of resilience for the LGBTQ+ community in Russia. The Supreme Court’s decision to declare the so-called “LGBT movement” extremist set the stage for an even more hostile environment. The risks for queer people grew significantly—activists faced criminal prosecution, social media posts became grounds for legal persecution, and an increasing number of community members saw no choice but to flee the country in search of safety.

As political repression intensified, so did the state’s crackdown on civil society. LGBTQ+ initiatives, support services, and safe spaces were forced to shut down, while many organizations had to either move underground or cease their work entirely. Yet despite these threats, ComingOut remained steadfast.

Throughout 2024, we adapted our work to an increasingly repressive climate. We strengthened our cybersecurity measures, ensured safe communication channels, and built new ways to keep providing legal, psychological, and career support. Even in the face of persecution, our lawyers continued to fight cases in Russian and international courts, setting important legal precedents for the future.

This work wouldn’t have been possible without the solidarity of those who stand against injustice. We felt the support of the global community, and we saw firsthand how every act of solidarity—every consultation, every legal victory, every safe space created—mattered. The road ahead is long, but we know that oppressive systems do not last forever. And with every step we take, that future draws closer.

Our impact in 2024:

• 2,460 psychological consultations
• 759 legal consultations
• 259 career consultations
• 44 court cases
• 21 reports submitted to international bodies
• 375,000 average monthly reach to the queer community in Russia

Thank you for standing with us. To stay connected with the Russian queer community, follow us on Instagram.

Links:

• Follow our Instagram page in English!