A Russian poetry competition, the Andrei Dementyev All-Russian Poetry Prize, has banned transgender individuals from submitting entries this year in order to protect traditional values. Russia has implemented a crackdown on LGBTQ rights, including designating the international LGBT social movement as extremist and banning gender change surgery and hormone therapy for transgender people.
The 7th International Poetry Slam Cyprus is an annual competition for local and international poets, taking place on March 11 and 12 at ARTos House in Nicosia. It is organized by Ideogramma and features short, intense, and performative poetry. The event spans two evenings, with the first dedicated to Cyprus-based poets competing for the National Slam Champion title, and the second featuring both local winners and international artists vying for the International Poetry Slam Cyprus title. Guest performers include Makis Moulos from Greece and Argyris Loizou, the twice-Cyprus national champion. The jury committee comprises Christophoros Roditis, Eleni Xenou, George Fialas, Katerina Attalidou, and Marilena Zakcheos. Competing poets include Maria Baka from Greece, Mama Fiera from Spain, Neža Prah Seničar from Slovenia, Antonia Eriksson from Sweden, and Henrikke Meidell from Norway. Additionally, three young poets from Xenion School in Paralimni will perform out of competition.