Stephen Fry Demands Russian Winter Olympics Ban Over Anti-Gay Laws In Letter To PM

TV presenter and comedian Stephen Fry has spoken out against the Russian Federation's new harsh anti-Gay law that even forbids the discussion of homosexuality around young people under 18. In an open letter to UK Prime Minister David Cameron, the Olympic Committee (IOC) and Lord Sebastian Coe, Fry urges that Russia be banned from the 2014 Winter Olympics, disparaging the country's laws as "shaven headed thuggery and bigoted religion."

A spokesperson from the government issued a statement, as reported by BBC News, to assure Fry that work was being done to ensure a safe and equal games: "We are working closely with the IOC and the BOA (British Olympic Association) to ensure that the Games take place in the spirit of the Olympic Charter and are free from discrimination," and it was mentioned that Mr. Cameron had personally raised concerns with Mr. Putin in a June meeting.

It's Up To David Cameron & The IOC To Take A Stand Against Russia's Unsettling Laws.

In a similar statement, the IOC said that "sport is a human right and should be available to all regardless of race, sex or sexual orientation," adding that they had been assure that "the legislation will not affect those attending or taking part in the Games."

After the runaway success and positivity accrued by the London 2012 Olympic Games, Fry infers that permitting Russia to hold the Winter counterpart unimpeded would be a step in the wrong direction for the equality and teamwork promoted by the Games: "The Five Rings would finally be forever smeared, besmirched and ruined in the eyes of the civilised world."