For the first time in Ukraine’s history, the National Council of Television and Radio Broadcasting has issued an unprecedented decision: a fine of 40,000 UAH was imposed on an online media outlet for publishing content containing hate speech targeting LGBTQI+ communities.
This marks a historic precedent. The sanctioned entity is the civic organization “Civic Movement ‘All Together!’”, which has been systematically spreading homophobic narratives across its platforms.
Back in February, the regulator issued an official notice requiring the removal of a publication that promoted hostility toward LGBTQI+ people. Despite the warning, the content remained publicly accessible. A follow-up review confirmed the violation, prompting the Council to apply a long-theoretical tool — a fine for hate speech.
This decision is not just a legal victory, it’s a powerful message to all media: the standards of responsible journalism must be upheld by everyone. Hate speech is not an “alternative opinion” or an expression of “free speech.” It is a dangerous force that incites violence, isolates individuals, and tears at the fabric of society.
We see this fine as a landmark precedent. It wasn’t born overnight — behind it are years of advocacy, hundreds of complaints, dozens of campaigns, legal interventions, regular monitoring, in-depth analysis, expert consultations, and sustained community pressure from those standing up against injustice.
This decision became possible thanks to persistent pressure on the system. And today, we see that the system can respond. But for real, lasting change, more is needed.
Ukraine needs strong legal protections against hate crimes — including those based on sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, and other characteristics. That’s why we at Gender Stream have been pushing for years to pass legislation that criminalizes such acts.
We believe that dignity is not an abstract concept — it is a fundamental right. And that right must be protected by law.
The National Council’s decision is a step forward. But to ensure hate speech disappears not just from websites but from our streets, police stations, courtrooms, and the daily lives of LGBTQI+ people in Ukraine, we need deep, systemic change.
We will continue this work, because we know that every word matters, and every voice has power.
Thank you to the National Council of Ukraine for your professionalism.
And thank you to everyone who supports the fight against discrimination — who builds a Ukraine where equality is not a compromise, but a core value.