Russia Posthumously Convicts LGBTQ+ Travel Agent of Extremism

A Moscow court has posthumously convicted Andrei Kotov, the late director of a travel agency catering to LGBTQ+ clients, of extremism-related offences, in a decision that has drawn international condemnation. Kotov, who died in custody in December 2024, was charged with organising and participating in an “extremist organisation” and allegedly involving minors in pornographic materials.

The charges stemmed from Russia’s 2023 designation of the “international LGBTQ+ movement” as an extremist organisation.

Prosecutors argued that Kotov’s company, Men Travel, organised tours for LGBTQ+ clients — including river cruises and trips abroad — as part of activities linked to this extremist network. Kotov denied all allegations, maintaining that his business operated as a standard travel agency.

According to reports, Kotov was arrested in late 2024 and allegedly suffered physical abuse during detention, including being beaten and shocked with a stun gun. He was held in solitary confinement and reportedly denied medical care and basic necessities.

On December 29, 2024, he was found dead in his detention cell, with authorities citing suicide as the cause.

Despite his death, the court proceeded with a closed-hearing trial and issued a guilty verdict, raising concerns about due process and the fairness of Russia’s legal system.

Lawyers representing Kotov did not request the case to be closed, allowing proceedings to continue posthumously.

Human rights observers have strongly criticized the ruling, describing it as part of a broader crackdown on LGBTQ+ individuals and organisations in Russia.

The posthumous conviction is viewed as symbolic, sending a stark warning to others who operate LGBTQ+-oriented businesses or community organisations.

The case highlights the increasing risks faced by LGBTQ+ Russians under Russia’s anti-extremism laws. Advocacy groups have warned that the vague classification of LGBTQ+ activities as “extremist” could lead to further prosecutions, a chilling effect on community initiatives, and continued suppression of queer rights in the country.

As the international community observes, Kotov’s case serves as a grim reminder of the perils faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Russia, raising urgent questions about human rights, legal transparency, and the treatment of detainees in the country’s justice system.