VR to toughen punishment for violation of LGBT and transgender rights

The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine intends to strengthen criminal liability for violation of LGBT rights. Photo: timeforaction.in.ua

The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine plans to consider in the near future a bill on amendments to the Criminal Code, which provides for tougher punishment for violation of the rights of LGBT and transsexuals, the Information and Education Department of the UOC reports, citing religious expert Yuri Reshetnikov.

According to the expert, in the 161st article of the Criminal Code of Ukraine "Violation of the equality of citizens depending on their race, nationality or attitude to religion", a new sign – sexual orientation, transsexuality – will be added to the existing ones."

The punishment under this article of the Criminal Code, depending on its part, ranges from a large fine, correctional labor with deprivation of the right to hold certain positions, up to 5 years in prison.

As reported by the UOJ, experts pointed to discrimination against the UOC in the new draft law on chaplaincy. 

Read also

Media shows conditions in which persecuted communities of Volyn have to pray

After their churches were seized, UOC faithful are compelled to pray in poorly equipped facilities.

UOC parishioner fined for comments about OCU in Rivne Region

The defendant fully admitted his guilt.

Ministry of Culture attempts to conduct inventory at Pochaiv Lavra

A monastery representative reminded officials that the Lavra fulfills its contractual obligations and uses the property for its intended purpose.

Cherkasy Prosecutor's Office demands seizure of UOC church in Horodyshche

The Cherkasy Regional Economic Court has initiated proceedings upon the prosecutor's lawsuit, with a court hearing already scheduled.

Reserve Director: Relics are exhibits handled by anthropologists

The Chernihiv Reserve's director assured that after the expulsion of the UOC community from the Trinity Cathedral, the relics of the saints have been registered as state property.

Chernihiv official: Nuns are deluded they will stay in convents forever

The director of the Chernihiv Reserve believes that the nuns are illegally residing in the convent and are "propaganda captives".