Repression
UN Report Blames Russia for Secret Detentions
A new United Nations report includes Russia on a list of countries that continue to illegally hold detainees in secret prisons. Detainees include not only terrorism suspects, but also opposition activists and others charged with extremism.
Jan 27, 2010 | Continued
Luzhkov Calls Ban on Gay Parades ‘An Axiom’
Moscow Mayor Yury Luzhkov stated Monday that his opposition to gay parades in Moscow should be considered “an axiom,” promising to continue to ban attempts to hold what he called “satanic activities.”
Jan 25, 2010 | Continued
‘YouTube Cop’ Detained Per Court Order
Aleksei Dymovsky, Russia’s so-called “YouTube Cop” who posted videos exposing police corruption in Russia on the internet in November, has been placed in a detention center per court order.
Jan 23, 2010 | Continued
Court Case Begins Against Kostroma Activist
A court case has begun in the city of Kostroma against an activist who investigators allege is guilty of extremism for language in a political pamphlet, despite the fact that federal experts found no such evidence.
Jan 18, 2010 | Continued
Russian Government Introduces New Legislation to Hinder Protests
Rights activists and opposition leaders are decrying two new moves by the Russian government to crack down on rallies and demonstrations by increasing paperwork, fines, and jail time for protesters.
Jan 17, 2010 | Continued
Omsk Deputy Detained for Supporting Dymovsky
An Omsk City Council deputy has been detained for his support of Aleksei Dymovsky, a former police major who recently launched a campaign to battle corruption in the Russian police.
Jan 13, 2010 | Continued
Moscow Authorities Ban Rally for Slain Lawyer
Moscow city authorities have banned a memorial rally for a lawyer and a journalist, both murdered last January – a decision rights activists are saying has no basis.
Jan 12, 2010 | Continued
60 Detained in Moscow New Year’s Eve Protest (photos added)
At least 60 opposition protestors were detained on New Year’s Eve night in Moscow during a rally to promote the freedom of assembly, including 82-year old rights activist Lyudmila Alexeyeva, drawing scorn from the EU, the USA, and human rights organizations.
Jan 2, 2010 | Continued
Artist Detained in Moscow During Public Exhibition
An artist and activist was detained after opening a public exhibition of his paintings in central Moscow, marking yet another artist arrested in Russia while attempting to display his work.
Dec 30, 2009 | Continued
Justice Ministry to Control Which NPOs are “Russian”
The Ministry of Justice has introduced an amendment that would control which non-profit organizations would be allowed to use “Russia” in their titles.
Dec 18, 2009 | Continued