Russia: Elton John to go ahead with Moscow concert
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 17 September 2013 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Russia: Elton John to go ahead with Moscow concert, 17 September 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/525e3f9ab.html [accessed 3 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
September 17, 2013
British pop star Elton John
British pop star Elton John plans to stage a concert in Moscow in December, despite a controversial Russian law banning the promotion of "nontraditional sexual relationships" to minors.
John told "The Guardian" that he would not boycott the venue, adding that a concert would better serve the interests of Russia's gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community.
John, 66, entered into a civil partnership with his longtime partner David Furnish in 2005 in one of Britain's first same-sex ceremonies.
He continues to be an outspoken advocate for LGBT social movements worldwide.
The new Russian law, adopted in June, is punishable with hefty fines.
U.S. pop divas Madonna and Lady Gaga, who championed gay rights during their shows in Russia last year, were subsequently threatened with legal action by conservative Russian lawmakers.
With reporting by the "The Guardian" and Voice of Russia
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
