Russian authorities have escalated their crackdown on the LGBT+ community by creating a national database to track individuals associated with the group, Meduza has reported.

The initiative follows the Supreme Court’s November 2023 designation of the LGBT+ community as an “extremist organisation.” This classification, which banned all LGBT+ activities and criminalised public expressions of identity, marks a new peak in the Kremlin’s anti-LGBT+ policies.

Since the ruling, police have raided gay clubs, saunas, and LGBT+ events in at least 18 regions, including Moscow and St Petersburg. During these operations, law enforcement gathered personal data from detainees, including phone numbers, addresses, and photographs. Biometric data such as fingerprints were also collected. Organisers of LGBT+ events have reportedly been coerced into handing over guest lists under threat of legal consequences.

Law enforcement has also been accused of using entrapment, creating fake profiles on dating apps and social media to lure individuals into revealing their sexual orientation or other private information. This data is allegedly being added to a national database.

Interior ministry sources speaking to Meduza cited resource shortages as a factor delaying the registry's implementation but revealed discussions about making the database publicly accessible. If enacted, the public could check the status of acquaintances or potential spouses, putting those listed at further risk. The database could also include records of administrative offences, such as fines under Russia’s “gay propaganda” laws.

Victims of the raids have reported traumatising experiences, including invasive questioning, physical intimidation, and confiscation of personal devices. Detainees refusing to cooperate were threatened with violence or legal action. The campaign has also targeted LGBT+ professionals, particularly teachers and doctors, jeopardising their careers. Reports suggest that authorities are attempting to identify and remove LGBT+ individuals from government roles.