Russian gay rights demo in Germany More than 2000 protesters took to the streets of Germany's capital Berlin, denouncing what they call Russia's discrimination against homo-and-trans-sexuals. Critics say new legislation in Russia effectively bans all support for gay people, including rallies. Many countries have seen similar protests. It comes ahead of the Sochi Winter Olympics in southern Russia next year. German TV personality Alfonso Pantisano was one of those taking part: "We're here because we're human beings and because we believe in 2013 human rights must ultimately be defended everywhere on this planet." Another demonstrator, calling himself Gloria Viagra Boydrag says perhaps the whole system should be looked at: "I support a boycott of the Olympics. I also support the idea of excluding the Russian team. But when you consider that the IOC held the Olympics in Beijing, and now in Russia it's about time to do something about the IOC and it's old farts. There have been calls to boycott the games, but Russia has told the IOC athletes and spectators at Sochi won't be affected. More about: Berlin, Gay rights, Germany, Protest, Russian politics, Vladimir Putin