Belarus Passes Bill Prohibiting 'Propaganda' of LGBT and Child-Free Lifestyles
The National Assembly of Belarus has approved a bill that not only amends existing laws but also introduces new offenses, significantly impacting the legal landscape in the country.
On April 2, the National Assembly of Belarus, the upper house of the country's parliament, passed a bill titled 'On Amending the Codes on Administrative Responsibility.' This legislation introduces substantial changes to the legal framework, reflecting a shift in the government's approach to social issues.
Andrei Mattsel'ski, the director of the National Center for Legislation and Legal Information, revealed that the new law adds nine new articles to the Code of Administrative Offenses (CAO), introduces 43 new types of administrative violations, and makes 73 amendments to existing offenses. This indicates the extensive nature of the changes being implemented in Belarus.
One of the most controversial aspects of the new legislation is the introduction of penalties for the 'propaganda of homosexual relationships, gender transition, childlessness, and pedophilia.' This provision has sparked significant public outcry, as it severely restricts the rights of certain groups within the population.
Under the new regulations, violations of this norm could result in hefty fines. For individuals, the penalties could reach up to 20 basic units, approximately equivalent to $300. Individual entrepreneurs may face fines of up to 100 basic units, around $1,500, while legal entities could incur fines ranging from 100 to 150 basic units, potentially amounting to $2,200.
It is important to note that if information regarding 'propaganda' is deemed to have reached a minor, the penalties for offenders will be intensified. In addition to increased fines, citizens could also face community service or administrative detention, underscoring the seriousness of the government's stance on this issue.
Furthermore, the bill introduces penalties for 'illegal representation of the Republic of Belarus at international events.' According to reports from the publication 'Nastoyashcheye Vremya,' fines for violations of this norm for individuals could range from 10 to 200 basic units, amounting to up to $3,000. For legal entities, fines could reach between 900 and 1,000 basic units, exceeding $15,000.
The updated code will come into effect only after being signed by the self-proclaimed President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, highlighting his role in the legislative process.
It is noteworthy that Belarus has previously intensified military propaganda among its population. Specifically, since February 24, a new nationwide television channel, 'VoenTV,' has been broadcasting, aimed at promoting military values and ideology.
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