Russia's Crackdown on LGBTQ+ Rights: Lawmakers Ban Gender Change and Transgender Medical Procedures

Russian lawmakers have unanimously adopted a bill banning gender change, including medical interventions and changes on official documents, in a further crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights. The bill also annuls marriages in which one person has changed gender and prohibits transgender individuals from becoming foster or adoptive parents. The only exception is for medical interventions to treat congenital anomalies. The bill's approval is seen as part of the Kremlin's efforts to protect "traditional values," with President Putin claiming that the West's acceptance of LGBTQ+ lifestyles signifies moral decay. Critics warn of a black market for hormone substitutes and an increase in attempted suicides among young people unable to access medical care. This follows previous legislation restricting LGBTQ+ rights, including a ban on "gay propaganda" and the outlawing of same-sex marriage.