Russia bans Elton John Aids Foundation over its support for LGBTQ+ rights

Designation as undesirable organisation' exposes nonprofit's staff and partners to possible criminal prosecution

Russian authorities on Thursday banned the Elton John Aids Foundation (EJAF), which focuses on HIV/Aids prevention, citing its support for LGBTQ+ rights as a reason for the move.

Founded by the British singer and songwriter in 1992, the organisation funds HIV treatment programmes in countries including Russia. It also advocates for LGBTQ+ people, who have faced years of brutal persecution in Russia.