Majority Of Russians Would Reject Gay Neighbor, Co-Worker

A majority of Russians say they would not like working beside or living next to a gay person.

According to a survey of 1,600 Russians conducted by the Russian Opinion Research Center, or VTsIOM, 51 percent of Russians would not like “under any circumstances” a gay neighbor or co-worker.

The results of the poll were published by The Moscow Times.

While homosexuality is not illegal in Russia, two newly enacted laws seek to limit the rights of gay men and lesbians.

The laws, recently signed by President Vladimir Putin, prohibit gay and lesbian couples from adopting Russian-born children and the public promotion of gay rights where minors might be present, effectively banning Gay Pride marches and similar demonstrations. Russian officials have said that its “gay propaganda” law would be in effect at the Winter Olympics at Sochi and that athletes or guests who violate the law will be detained.

The laws have provoked worldwide condemnation and calls for a boycott of the Sochi Games.

A third proposed law seeks to define gay men and lesbians as unfit to parent.

(Related: Russian lawmaker proposes bill saying gay people are unfit to parent.)