Russian court fines Lady Gaga’s concert organiser for ‘promoting’ homosexuality to children

Lady Gaga’s promoters in Russia have been fined 20,000 rubles (£380 or $615) for violating the country’s controversial anti-gay laws.

In August, Russian politicians claimed that both Madonna and Lady Gaga violated their visa conditions when they performed shows in Russia due to their promotion of homosexuality.

Today, the Trade Union of Russian Citizens said a court in St Petersburg yesterday upheld an earlier ruling against the organisers of the concerts in May.

The Trade Union of Russian Citizens spokeswoman Darya Dedova told the media that Lady Gaga had harmed the well-being of young people by exposing them to knowledge about homosexuality.

“We have managed to prove that the promoters were wrong and acted in breach of Russian laws, especially those important ones concerning the protection of children,” Mrs Dedova said.

In August, the singer condemned Russia for its climate of homophobic oppression. She said: “The Russian Government is criminal. Oppression will be met with revolution. Russian LGBTs you are not alone. We will fight for your freedom.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the anti-”propaganda” bill into law in June, issuing a nationwide ban of the promotion of “non-traditional” relationships to minors.