MOSCOW, November 8 (RIA Novosti) – Russia could be denied the right to hold the Eurovision song contest in future over recently introduced “gay propaganda” legislation, its organizers said.
The 2014 Eurovision contest will be held in Copenhagen, and Russia’s entry will need to win it in order to bring the 2015 event to Moscow.
But the organizers have already asked Russia’s two top TV broadcasters to explain how the legislation would affect artistic freedom and audience security if the contest is held in Russia, German magazine Stern said.
Neither broadcaster publicly commented on the matter as of Friday.
A representative for Sweden was cited as saying in the report, released Wednesday, that his country would withdraw from the contest if it is held in Russia.
A law banning “gay propaganda among minors” came into force in Russia last June.
Conservative Russian activists have already tried to sue music stars Madonna, Rammstein and Lady Gaga for alleged promotion of LGBT lifestyles at their Russian shows.
Russian police also confirmed they would be enforcing the ban during the upcoming Sochi Olympics.
Russia hosted Eurovision in 2009, without any gay-related incidents.
The show enjoys a massive following in the global LGBT community and has previously included gay performers.
Russia has never fielded an openly gay Eurovision entry. This year’s domestic favorites include the all-male official choir of the Russian Army.
