Elton John AIDS Foundation Declared Undesirable:The Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF), a non-governmental organization founded by the British singer Elton John, has been officially declared undesirable in Russia. The Russian Prosecutor General’s Office announced the decision, claiming the organization promotes “non-traditional sexual orientations” and Western family structures.
Why Russia Declared the Elton John AIDS Foundation Undesirable
The Russian government stated that the Elton John AIDS Foundation is associated with international organizations that support economic sanctions against Russia. Authorities claim that under the pretext of humanitarian efforts, the foundation advances what they call an extremist LGBT social movement, which is banned in Russia.
Impact of the Ban on HIV/AIDS Treatment in Russia
The ban on Elton John AIDS Foundation could further worsen HIV/AIDS treatment in Russia, where over one million people are living with the virus. The country faces severe stigma, lack of access to medication, and limited support, especially in rural areas and prison systems.
Crackdown on International NGOs in Russia
The Elton John AIDS Foundation is the latest organization to be blacklisted under Russia’s ongoing crackdown on foreign NGOs. Other organizations declared undesirable in Russia include:
-
World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
-
Greenpeace
-
Transparency International
-
Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty
Elton John’s Long History with Russia
Despite the ban, Elton John remains popular in Russia. He has performed in the country more than two dozen times, including a historic 1979 tour in the Soviet Union. However, with the latest government restrictions, his influence in Russia faces an uncertain future.
