In Russia under Vladimir Putin, dissent is not allowed. Critics of the Kremlin have faced a range of laws that can be used against them, and since the invasion of Ukraine, these measures have only increased. These laws violate fundamental rights such as freedom of speech and assembly, despite being protected by Russia’s constitution. The severe punishments, often disproportionate to the offense, are reminiscent of tactics used in the Soviet era.
Spreading ‘false information’
One of the most commonly used laws against critics of the war in Ukraine is the criminalization of spreading “deliberately false information” about the Russian army. This law was quickly enacted after the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov citing the need to combat an information war against Russia. More than 300 people have been charged or convicted under this law, including high-profile figures like Ilya Yashin and Vladimir Kara-Murza.
‘Discrediting’ the Russian army
Another recent law targets those who “discredit” the Russian army, with actions such as wearing Ukrainian flag colors, writing anti-war messages on cakes, or displaying anti-war posters leading to fines and legal action. Even praying for peace has been deemed as discrediting the armed forces in some cases.
Targeting ‘foreign agents’
The “foreign agents” law allows for restrictions to be imposed on critics without the need for a conviction, if they are perceived to have received foreign funding or influence. This label must be attached to all public communications, undermining trust in the targeted individuals or organizations.
‘Undesirable organizations’ and ‘extremists’
Being labeled as “undesirable” results in an outright ban, leading to the disbandment of various organizations and media outlets. The use of extremism charges has been used to silence opposition figures like Alexei Navalny, who was imprisoned and later died in jail.
Rallies and protests
In Russia, holding demonstrations critical of the government is nearly impossible, as permission from authorities is required. Even one-person pickets are often shut down, with individuals facing fines for seemingly innocuous acts like wearing certain colors or posing in specific ways.
Laws as a tool to ‘legitimize repression’
According to human rights advocates, the Kremlin uses vague laws to justify repression, allowing authorities to interpret activities as forbidden. These laws play a crucial role in maintaining control over the population and stifling dissent in Russia.
La legislación utilizada por los servicios de seguridad había sido “deliberadamente diseñada de una manera que facilita su aplicación de manera simple y generalizada”, agregó.
La Sra. Prilutskaya dice que todo se suma a un clima general de represión, la cual culpa al presidente Vladimir Putin.
“Las ambiciones de una persona han llevado a Rusia al borde de un abismo realmente profundo”, dijo.