Olga Romanova, a well-known Russian journalist, told the "Kvir" in her interview that "recently, to be frank, the authorities of some penitentiary bodies, had begun to set up special cells for gays, but criminals with a pull still try to get a gay in their cell because "someone must work anyway...". For the last three years she was working hard trying to free her husband from the prison and in September this year the sentence was repealed by the Supreme Court.

"During these long 3 years Olga has transformed into a crowbar and has become the Leader of Public Opinion, writes "Kvir". Helping not only her husband but others imprisoned (cases on violation of the rights of imprisoned people), Olga has brought her efforts in the fight for tolerance towards gays in prison".

According to Olga Romanova's words, the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia (FSIN) does not pay enough attention to the problem of violence towards gays in prisons. "The everyday life of gays and abused is similar, tells Olga about the situation in Russian prisons and detention centers: They are forced to do every dirty job, clean toilets, cells and wash dishes. They are not allowed to eat at table - instead they should eat near the cell's toilet. They have no right to sleep on beds so they must sleep on the floor at the entrance or on the floor under the beds".

Olga Romanova's interview can be found in November issue of the "Kvir".

English translation presented by Yerdna Bananes