After it was announced in Russia that "The International LGBT Movement" Outlawed, a new wave of crackdowns has begun—now targeting gay clubs, queer parties, and drag shows. People are being detained and charged with “propaganda,” and some organizers are even facing criminal charges—allegedly for extremism.
Obviously, there’s no one-size-fits-all guide on “how to survive a raid and come out unscathed”—this isn’t The Sims. But taking certain precautions can help minimize the risks and save face. Here’s how to prepare and what to do if your evening starts off great but ends badly.
Who is organizing the raids, and why?
It’s supposedly 2025, but the atmosphere feels like it’s straight out of the late Soviet era: they barge in, take photos, ask who you came with, and love to have “educational talks.” Sometimes they even hand-write summonses right there in the club—so you don’t have to get up twice.
In the past, law enforcement used to crack down on drugs in clubs. Now they’re hunting down rainbow flags and glitter. Regular guests are most often charged with “propaganda,” but if you’re an organizer or club owner, you could even face criminal charges. All in all, it’s a blast. Almost like a horror movie, only without the popcorn.
What should you do before the party so you won't regret it later?
- Documents to Bring. Your passport—or at least a notarized copy—is your ticket to freedom. Without them, you’re likely to “hang out” at the police station for longer.
- Cleaning Your Phone. Anything that might hint at your sexual orientation, views on the war, use of psychoactive substances, or political stance—out the window. Yes, it’s sad. Yes, that’s the reality. Even an emoji of a rainbow flag is practically a crime.
- A lawyer is your new best friend. Save this number—preferably on a piece of paper and in your head. The organizations' contact information is listed below—don't miss it.
- Your loved ones should know where you are. And who should you call if you “go missing”? Have them write down the lawyer’s number, too. Hopefully, you won’t need it, but it’s good to have it just in case.
Security forces in Russia are increasingly conducting raids on LGBT clubs, bars, and even fitness centers. What should you do if you find yourself caught up in a raid?
A guide from meduza.io on how to minimize risks and cope with an unpleasant experience [читать]
The party didn't go as planned: what should you do in this situation?
- Don't panic. Don't try to be a hero. If a raid has started, don't throw Molotov cocktails. It won't help. Calm down and breathe.
- Let your loved ones know. Write, call, send a photo—anything that makes it clear: “I’m being tormented here.” By law, they’re required to release you or at least let you tell a family member or a lawyer where you are. Article 27.3 of the Code of Administrative Offenses—you can print it out if you want to live on the edge.
- A protocol isn't your dating profile. Ask to have a defense attorney present. If they refuse, don’t try to explain anything. Write in the report: “I do not admit guilt; I am calling my attorney.” And include the attorney’s contact information. This could save you in court.
- Stop talking. All those “Who are you here with?” and “What are you doing here?” questions—save them for the interview. Until you’re detained, stick to the common story (it’s best to find out in advance what the organizers advise everyone to say). If you don’t follow the group line, you’ll stand out. And this isn’t a situation where individuality is a plus.
What should you do if you're summoned for a medical examination?
Sometimes, instead of “extremism,” people bring up the good old war on drugs. They might suggest “going along with them.” You You can decline — but be prepared for the possibility of being detained for two days under Article 19.3 of the Code of Administrative Offenses for “disobedience.”
- Inspection — Only in the presence of two witnesses and only with a person of the same sex. This is important. Was this rule violated? File a complaint.
- Inspection Report — Read carefully. Cross out anything that’s blank. That way, they won’t write anything of their own there while you’re staring at the wall.
Where can I go for help?
- Contact “First Department” if a criminal case has been filed against you for “LGBT extremism.” Write to us to the Telegram bot or by email [email protected]
- If a criminal or administrative case has been filed against you in the Russian LGBT Network for “LGBT propaganda”: [email protected]
- If you want to find a lawyer on your own but don't know how, read our memo on this.
Okay, now you’re at least a little bit more informed. Remember: going to a party is your right. But in Russia, rights and reality are two parallel universes. Stay alert, keep your cool, and don’t forget that the community is there for you—even if the power goes out.
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