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

Kosovo to enact law restricting Serbian Church, experts say

Analysts warn that the new "Law on Foreigners" in Kosovo could restrict the presence of clergy, believers' access to shrines, and increase pressure on the Serbian community.

Congress Speaker: Demand to introduce Sharia law in USA is a serious problem

The Speaker of the House of Representatives stated that there is growing concern in society about attempts to impose Islamic law, which is incompatible with the American Constitution.

UK government introduces restrictions on "anti-Muslim hostility"

UK authorities have adopted a new definition of "Islamophobia" which, according to experts, could provide Muslims with special protection and restrict freedom of speech.

Dumenko brings icon in Church Slavonic to Ministry of Health

Epifaniy presented cardiologists with an Intercession icon, with inscriptions in Church Slavonic, which his structure calls a "sign of the Moscow tradition".

ISIS supporters carries out terrorist attack at anti-Islamic protest in NY

Near the home of New York's Muslim mayor, radicals threw two makeshift bombs at protesters during an anti-Islamic rally.

Hryshchuk: If UOC hands over its church itself, angle grinders aren't needed

An OCU chaplain called on UOC believers to accept the loss of the shrine for the sake of their own "enlightenment".