var addthis_config = {“data_track_addressbar”:true};Warnings for LGBT people included
The U.S State Department has just issued an extensive travel alert for U.S. citizens who will be attending the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia. The alert specifically mentions the dangers of Russia’s anti-gay laws, along with concerns of terrorism, crime, insufficient medical facilities, and public demonstrations.
“The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens planning to attend the 2014 Olympic Games in Russia that they should remain attentive regarding their personal security at all times,” the warning reads.
Last month, more than 30 people were killed during terrorist bombings in Russia, several hundred miles from Sochi.
“In June 2013, Russia’s State Duma passed a law banning the ‘propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations’ to minors. The U.S. government understands that this law applies to both Russian citizens and foreigners in Russia. Russian citizens found guilty of violating the law could face a fine of up to 100,000 rubles ($3,100). Foreign citizens face similar fines, up to 14 days in jail, and deportation. The law makes it a crime to promote LGBT equality in public, but lacks concrete legal definitions for key terms. Russian authorities have indicated a broad interpretation of what constitutes “LGBT propaganda,†and provided vague guidance as to which actions will be interpreted by authorities as “LGBT propaganda.†LGBT travelers should review the State Department’s LGBT Travel Information page.”
While the State Department has issued travel alerts specific to Olympic Games previously — for example, for the 2008 Beijing Olympics in China — this alert appears to be much more far-reaching and extensive than others.
For more, visit the State Dept.’s Sochi 2014 – Visitor Information For Olympic and Paralympic Games and LGBT travel page,