Promoting Human Rights: A Project for Russia

November 17 - 20, 2013

About Russia

Russia decriminalized homosexuality almost 20 years ago, however, it is still comprised of deep conservative attitudes [1]. In 2013, Russia passed a bill that banned gay propaganda. Hate crimes and strong anti-gay sentiments causes fear among the LGBT community [2]. A recent assessment rated Russia as one of the hardest places for gay people to live in [2]. The propaganda law makes any public LGBT event almost impossible. Human Rights Watch and other groups form support platforms in order to regain their rights and reduce discrimination. Since the passing of the law, people now feel entitled to their verbal and sometimes physical attacks as the LGBT community is portrayed as wrong or inferior [3].

About the Program

The IVLP is a professional exchange program that seeks to build mutual understanding between the U.S. and other nations through carefully designed short-term visits to the U.S. for current and emerging foreign leaders. Over the last 70 years, the IVLP has developed into the premier professional exchange program in the U.S. and brings over 200 emerging leaders to Jacksonville every year.

[1] http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-23604142

[2] http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-26080047

[3] http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-30488171