Historically, Russia has had a mixed approach to gender and sexual diversity. The early Soviet era saw significant advancements in legal rights for women and sexual minorities, with the decriminalization of homosexual acts in 1917 being a notable example. However, these progressive steps were often followed by periods of repression and conservative policies, particularly under Stalin's rule. In recent years, Russia has seen a resurgence of conservative values, influencing its legislation and societal attitudes.