Belarus approves law that further restricts gays and lesbians
The Belarusian parliament approves a controversial law restricting gays and lesbians. Human rights groups warn of more discrimination.
The Belarusian parliament has approved a controversial bill. The new law significantly restricts rights of gays, lesbians and transgender people.
President Aleksandr Lukashenko is known as 'Europe's last dictator'. Under his rule, freedoms have been limited for years.
The law bans advertising for same-sex relationships. Organising Pride events also becomes more difficult. Interest groups say the measure encourages discrimination.
Human rights organisations react furiously. Amnesty International calls the law a 'serious attack on fundamental freedoms'. It also warns of more violence against gays and lesbians.
LGBTQ+ activists in the country work under difficult conditions. The new law makes their position untenable.
The West strongly condemns the measure. The European Union considers further sanctions against Belarus.