Roskomnadzor, Russia’s media regulator, has initiated an investigation into allegations leveled against Duolingo, the language learning application, for supposedly disseminating “LGBT propaganda”. As reported by TASS, Russia’s state news agency, the investigation commenced last Friday.
Since its inception in 2011, Duolingo has amassed a large user-base globally. However, the platform drew criticism recently when Radatel, a Novosibirsk-based human rights group, requested a formal inquiry into potential violations, accusing Duolingo of promoting “LGBT propaganda”. Statements such as “Ben and Peter love each other. They are gay,” and “Clara met her wife Maria at a lesbian bar,” are among those flagged by Radatel as concerning. However, Roskomnadzor has denied receiving such complaints from parents or caregivers.
The Russian Federal Law “On the Protection of Children from Information Harmful to Their Health and Development“, specifically Article 5, categorizes the promotion of non-traditional sexual relations as detrimental to children’s health and development. What’s troubling is that such allegations and investigations are reflective of the hostile environment that members of the LGBTQ+ community continually face in Russia. Challenges range from restrictions on advocacy, the lack of recognition of rights, and the denial of marriage equality, piling up significantly due to governmental measures.
Russian lawmakers have also passed a bill widening the reach of existing legislation concerning LGBTQ+ material. Dubbed the “propaganda of non-traditional sexual relations among minors”, this legislation is now applicable to individuals of all age groups. The amended legislation, particularly Article 6.21 emphasizes “propaganda of non-traditional sexual relations” and imposes substantial fines on offenders.
In response to human rights concerns, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has put pressure on Russia to legalize same-sex unions. The response centrally acknowledges early societal development stages as the reason for not being prepared to implement such measures.
Given the many struggles facing the LGBTQ+ community in Russia, the Duolingo investigation sends a chilling reminder of the challenges ahead in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Russia. This topic requires our attention, and it is vital for all of us, not just legal professionals, to stay informed about these significant global issues.