A recent survey conducted by independent sociological research company Russian Field revealed that the attitude of many Russians towards the LGBTQ community has become increasingly negative in recent years. The survey, which polled 1,600 people across the country, found that the number of Russians supporting limitations on LGBTQ rights has grown significantly over the past decade.
According to the results of the poll, published by the Kommersant newspaper, 62% of respondents this year said they supported limiting the rights of gay people, while 55% were in favor of restricting transgender rights. In comparison, two years ago, only 42% of Russians opposed the idea of equal rights for homosexual and heterosexual individuals, and in 2013, this view was shared by just 19% of the population.
The survey also asked respondents about their associations with the phrases “traditional values” and “European values”, as well as their feelings towards the LGBTQ community. Most participants said they associated traditional Russian values with patriotism, family, respect for elders, love for their country, Orthodox Christian faith, freedom, and justice. However, Russian Field did not provide an exact percentage of people who chose this option. On the other hand, the phrase “European values” was associated with freedom, democracy, tolerance, LGBTQ, homosexuality, and same-sex marriage. The study noted that some respondents found this phrase “disgusting.”
When asked about specific limitations that should be imposed on LGBTQ people, 25% of respondents believed they should be prohibited from promoting their sexual preferences, 13% said public displays of affection should be prohibited, and 11% even suggested that LGBTQ individuals should be expelled from the country. Interestingly, the survey found that demands to limit LGBTQ rights were more common among people over 45 years old. However, nearly a quarter of respondents also insisted that Russia does not legally repress the individual rights of LGBTQ members.
In recent years, Russia has implemented stricter restrictions on the promotion of LGBTQ values, particularly to children. Back in 2013, Moscow banned “LGBTQ propaganda” targeted at minors. Then, in December of last year, President Vladimir Putin signed a law imposing hefty fines for promoting “non-traditional sexual relations,” pedophilia, and transgenderism among both minors and adults through various channels such as books, cinema, media, and websites.
The findings of this survey suggest a concerning trend of growing negativity towards the LGBTQ community in Russia. It highlights the need for continued efforts to promote tolerance, acceptance, and respect for diversity within the country.
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