HANDOUT – Belarusian ruler Alexander Lukashenko speaks at a session of the All Belarusian People’s Assembly in Minsk (archive photo). Photo: Uncredited/Belarusian Presidential Press Service/dpa
Keystone
Following the example of neighboring Russia, Belarus has criminalized “propaganda” for homosexual relationships, gender change, pedophilia and childlessness. A corresponding law with a section on the “protection of traditional values” has been signed by head of state Alexander Lukashenko, the presidential administration in Minsk announced. Fines of up to the equivalent of a good 400 euros or even prison sentences are envisaged.
Lukashenko has ruled the ex-Soviet republic in an authoritarian manner since 1994. The close ally of Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin is regularly accused of human rights violations.