Russian police have arrested dozens of gay rights protesters in Moscow last weekend when they hit the streets to demonstrate against discrimination just hours before the Eurovision Song Contest final.
Up to 40 people were detained by police and face charges for holding what Russian police described as an “unsanctioned demonstration”
Among those detained was Nikolai Alexeyev, a Russian gay rights leader. Alexeyev was walking with a person wearing women's clothes whom he described as a friend. Police said they were arresting him for walking with a transvestite.
Moscow Mayor Yuri Luzhkov has taken a hard line against homosexual protesters, once describing a gay rights parade as "satanic".
Commentators around the world have spoken out about Russia's treatment of gays and lesbians especially when they are welcoming The Eurovision Song Contest to Moscow - a competition known for its flamboyance and camp nature.
The contest's eventual winner, 23 year old Norwegian, Alexander Rybak criticised the behaviour of the Russian police after being voted winner, according to Deutsche Presse Agentur.
"We had with us in the hall today the biggest gay parade ever", Rybak said referring to the numerous gay fans present at the show.
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