Apple Fined in Russia for Alleged Violations of LGBT Propaganda Law

A Russian court has fined U.S. tech giant Apple approximately 7.5 million roubles (around $93,500) over alleged breaches of Russia’s controversial “LGBT propaganda” law, part of the Kremlin’s broader crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights.

The Moscow Tagansky Court ruled on Monday that Apple Distribution International Ltd. committed three administrative offenses under laws prohibiting the “promotion of non-traditional sexual relationships.” Each violation carried a fine of 2.5 million roubles.

The rulings come amid escalating restrictions imposed by the Russian government, which has increasingly portrayed LGBTQ+ advocacy as a threat to what it calls traditional family values.

President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly used anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric to frame Western societies as morally declining, with Russia positioning itself as a defender of conservative values.

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In late 2023, Russia formally designated the so-called “international LGBT movement” as extremist. This label opens the door to harsher penalties and potential criminal prosecutions for individuals and organizations seen as supporting LGBTQ+ rights.

Apple has not publicly commented on the court decision. According to independent outlet Mediazona, Apple’s legal team requested that the hearings be held behind closed doors, so the specific nature of the alleged violations remains unclear.

The court’s decision follows a growing pattern of fines and legal actions targeting media companies, streaming platforms, and tech firms accused of breaching the country’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws. Critics, including human rights groups, have condemned these moves as state-sponsored repression and a violation of free expression.

As tensions continue between Russia and Western nations, Apple’s case underscores the mounting challenges faced by global corporations operating under increasingly authoritarian regimes.