Russia says transsexuals, those with “sexual disorders”, unfit to drive

Transsexuals, transvestites and others thought to have “sexual disorders” have been barred from driving in Russia for medical reasons under new road safety regulations. The new regulations have been criticised by rights activists, who see them as unconstitutional and likely to exacerbate an already hostile climate for the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in Russia. The government resolution, dated December 29 and signed by Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev, lists numerous medical conditions, including “mental and behavioral disorders” defined by the World Health Organization, that the government believes disqualify a person for a driving license. The resolution does not claim WHO endorsement for the new driving restrictions. But Human Rights First activist Shawn Gaylord warned that the new rule “leaves the door open for increased harassment, persecution and discrimination of transgender people by Russian authorities.”

The new Russian rules banning people from driving because of their gender identity are ridiculous and unlawful.

Nils Muiznieks, human rights commissioner for the Council of Europe, in a Facebook post

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