LGBTQ Etiquette in Russia

Public LGBTQ expression is often kept very discreet in Russia, and same-sex couples may avoid open displays of affection in many settings to reduce the risk of hostility or unwanted attention. Since the 2013 “gay propaganda” law and later restrictions, LGBTQ topics are politically sensitive, so travelers should expect conservative attitudes in public and more openness mainly in private or in a few larger-city social spaces.