Hornet Ceases Monetization in Russia While Remaining Available to Queer People There
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Permitting the LGBTQ community to connect with one another and to build bridges can be a source of comfort and a pathway to peace
West Hollywood, Calif., March 9, 2022 – Hornet, the world’s queer social network with 35 million users, has decided to continue serving queer users in Russia with its product, while ceasing all monetization through advertising. Hornet is the largest queer app in both Russia and Ukraine, and is one of very few ways for queer people in both countries to connect to their community amidst increasing anti-LGBTQ sentiment in militarized and authoritarian environments.
However, Hornet has ceased monetizing its business in Russia, in line with sanctions imposed on the country, including through advertising, resulting in a seven-figure impact on its revenue.
In a message to all users globally, Hornet’s CEO Christof Wittig denounced Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as a serious breach of international law, a violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty, and a setback for the queer tech company’s vision of a world in which all people can be themselves.
“Queer people are often additionally victimized on both sides of a conflict,” said Wittig. “It is now time to connect to your community and support those who are suffering. We stand in solidarity with our incredibly brave Hornet team members in Ukraine, and the many users there who fear for their lives and the lives of their families.”
Photo at top: Pride in St. Petersburg 2014, Maria Komarova / Flickr
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About Hornet
Hornet is the world’s queer tech platform, already providing a community home base to 35 million users to connect with their community — anytime, anywhere. Amplifying the radical, affirmative power of the queer community with cutting-edge technology, users can safely embrace their authentic selves. Founded in 2011, Hornet has disrupted dozens of markets such as France, Russia, Brazil, Turkey and Taiwan, to become the number one queer app and is rapidly expanding its sizable user base across Europe and the United States.
More information at hornet.com
Hornet – Connect to Your Community
Press contact: press@hornet.com
