About us
Aegis is an emergency support project for LGBTQ+ people from Russia who face persecution and serious threats to their safety.
The team behind the emergency support project for LGBTQ+ people came together.
After the ban on so-called “LGBT propaganda” was extended to audiences of all ages, the project began operating under the name Aegis.
Our mission
To protect the rights, safety and interests of people and organisations facing persecution because of sexual orientation, gender identity or expression within the internationally recognised borders of the Russian Federation.
What we do
- Emergency protection
We help people find physical safety in crisis situations. - Psychological support
We help people access support after experiencing violence and persecution. - Legal assistance
We provide legal consultations and assess legal risks. - Sharing information
We share information with the community about rights, risks and safety measures. - Advocacy
We work to address the effects of discriminatory legislation and law enforcement practices.
Our expertise
Our core expertise is comprehensive safety for people facing persecution and serious threats. We consider legal, digital and physical risks, and handle particularly sensitive requests for support.
Our direct support focuses on LGBTQ+ people at risk of criminal prosecution, imprisonment or physical violence from others, including family members.
Find out when you can ask for help (in Russian) →
Our team
The project was founded by activists and human rights defenders who had previously worked in various queer organisations in Russia. This experience helps us assess each situation as a whole and tailor support to individual risks.
Why we do not name every team member
Most members of Aegis keep their identities private. They remain anonymous for their own safety and so they can continue this work for as long as possible.