In a surprising turn of events, Roman Aleshin, recognized as Russia‘s first transgender politician, announced his detransition on Wednesday. Aleshin, who headed a branch of Russia’s Civil Initiative party in Siberia’s southern Altai Territory, revealed his decision via Telegram, saying he realized he is a man and a Russian patriot.
Recognized by Russian media as the country’s first transgender female politician when he transitioned to ‘Yulia’ Aleshina, Aleshin’s detransition follows a bill Vladimir Putin signed into law last July, prohibiting individuals from changing their gender identifiers on legal documents or undergoing gender transitions. The law also introduces liability for doctors providing medical care to transgender individuals.
On the back of Russia‘s stringent anti-LGBTQ+ policies, Aleshin exited politics in October 2022. His decision to detransition, he shared, came after deep consideration during the Lent period, influenced significantly by conversations with his mother and relatives.
In a recent interview with news site Bankfax, Aleshin expressed the belief that his original intention to transition was a consequence of his ancestors’ “sins,” a belief that now pushes him towards atonement. Furthermore, he voiced intentions of joining the clergy after securing a church education. Aleshin assures that he has no plans of re-entering politics.
Aleshin’s decision to detransition comes amidst increasing global resistance to radical gender ideology. This week, Peru classified transgenders as mentally ill. Earlier this year, the UK government reversed its longstanding policy of encouraging children to transition.
