Lawmakers in the Russian city have postponed debate on a bill which would impose fines for the promotion of homosexuality after lawmakers have failed to agree on its ‘legal definitions’.
Vilatly Milonov, of the United Russia party said: We have decided to double-check all legal definitions related to this bill.”
The new law introduces fines for “propaganda of sodomy, lesbianism, bisexualism ad transgenderism, to minors” but this is now also being addressed.
The city has seen a number of demonstrations surrounding he new law, and LGBT rights group AllOutorg launched an emergency petition against the bill, which currently has 165,000 signatories.
Co-founder of AllOut.org Andre Banks said; “Because Russia is a powerful nation, the international community has stayed silent – not one major world leader has yet to speak out against this bill.
“It’s time for the same world leaders who spoke up against the ‘Anti-Homosexuality’ bill in Uganda to speak out against this draconian law in Russia.”
The new law recently was passed by 27 votes to 1, and can see fines introduced which range from 1,000 roubles (£20) to 50,000 (£1,000).
Polina Savchenko, General manager of LGBT group Coming out, Russia said: “By combining homosexuality, bisexuality, and transsexuality into one law with sexual crimes against minors, members of the legislative Assembly indulge in gross manipulations of public opinion.
“Organizers of public events cannot restrict access of minors to an open area.
“Consequently, it makes any public campaigns aimed at reducing xenophobia and hate crime prevention impossible.”
