One thing that Covid-19 has not stopped is a referendum in Russia to change the constitution. Russians have been going to the polls to remove term limits, allowing current President Vladimir Putin to remain in power until 2036, if he so chooses. Given the anti-LGBTI laws that have been implemented under his current rule, some fear success would means heightened attacks on Russia’s queer community.
Ira Roldugina is a PhD student and author from Moscow who specialises in the history of homosexuality in Russia. The once very liberal queerness of Russia is under threat and Ira is not afraid to speak out against the ruling regime.