To the Point
The Anti-Gay Backlash Goes Global
Vladimir Putin’s anti-gay laws made headlines before the Sochi Olympics. We’ll hear how dangerous life can be for Russian gays and lesbians.
By Warren Olney • • 51m ListenVladimir Putin’s anti-gay laws made headlines before the Sochi Olympics. We’ll hear how dangerous life can be for Russian gays and lesbians. Also, Syrian peace talks resume and new websites that look at first like they're promoting Democrats turn out to be doing just the reverse.
Banner Image: A placard showing Russian President Vladimir Putin next to the words "Love always wins" is seen on a rainbow flag during a protest in Madrid against Russia's anti-gay laws ahead of the Sochi 2014 Olympic Games February 5, 2014. REUTERS/Susana Vera
In this episode
3 storiesIn Homs, Respite from Siege Provides Little Relief
Syrian peace talks resumed today in Geneva—with no face-to-face negotiations yet between dissidents and the government. Meantime this weekend’s three-day humanitarian cease-fire in the City of Homs did not provide the moment of relief hoped for by trapped civilians. That’s according to Ben Hubbard, who’s in Antakya, Turkey for the New York Times.
Read the story8 minHomophobia and Gay Rights in Putin's Russia
The Sochi Olympics have focused attention on Vladimir Putin’s anti-gay laws, but homophobia runs deep in Russia and elsewhere around the world. Putin is not the only autocratic leader targeting gays to mobilize political supporters, sometimes to the point of deadly violence.
Read the story35 minRepublicans Set Up Fake Sites for Democratic Congressional Candidates
New websites that look at first like they’re promoting Democrats turn out to be just the reverse. When users hit Donate, they contribute to the National Republican Congressional Committee. Democrats say it’s illegal; Republicans say it’s all part of the game in the digital age.
Read the story8 min
