In Moscow's Shadows 157: No Crime and Much Punishment: the Gershkovich Case and recent books on Russia's prisons
Jul 28, 2024
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In this discussion, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich shares insights into his wrongful spying charges and the implications of his imprisonment in Russia. They explore the Kremlin's motives for targeting foreign journalists and elaborate on the bleak realities of the Russian penal system. The conversation shifts to recent literature about the Soviet Gulag, revealing chilling historical parallels. Together, they reflect on the impact of imprisonment on both individuals and society, shedding light on the oppressive environment that endures today.
Evan Gershkovich's swift sentencing on flimsy espionage charges highlights the Kremlin's tactic of intimidating Western journalists in Russia.
Recent books on Russia's penal system illustrate the harsh realities and historical context of incarceration, shedding light on inmates' experiences.
Deep dives
Evan Gershkovich's Arrest and Charges
Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal journalist, was arrested in Yekaterinburg amidst charges of espionage for allegedly gathering intelligence on Russia's military industrial complex. The Kremlin's claim raises skepticism, especially given the lack of tangible evidence presented against him, such as surveillance footage or confessions. Gershkovich's swift trial within two days also points to a concerning trend where the Russian judicial system acts with efficiency that belies the usual procedural delays, suggesting a politically motivated rather than a justice-driven case. His situation exemplifies how the Kremlin aims to intimidate the dwindling presence of Western journalists in Russia, particularly those venturing beyond the capital to explore genuine public sentiment.
Geopolitical Implications and Possible Exchanges
The arrest of an American journalist carries geopolitical weight for the Kremlin, as it could facilitate future prisoner exchanges. The Russian state is known for its calculated strategies involving high-profile detainees, particularly Americans who may be deemed more negotiable due to their government's willingness to engage in swaps. Speculation surrounds potential exchanges involving other individuals, possibly including criminals with ties to the state, highlighting a systemic approach where detainees serve as pawns in larger political games. This pattern of trading incarcerated assets indicates strategic maneuvering by the Russian government to bolster its leverage in international relations.
The Nature of the Russian Prison System
The Russian penal system is characterized by its labor camps, which prioritize keeping inmates busy rather than reforming them through traditional prison structures. These camps often operate on a system where violence can stem from both the prison hierarchy and the authorities’ treatment of inmates, creating a distinct environment of power dynamics. The distinction between 'red' and 'black' prisons highlights variations in control and inmate interactions, with foreigners typically placed in settings that allow state oversight. The upcoming prison experience for Gershkovich is likely to be harsh yet structured, aimed more at maintaining state authority than genuinely rehabilitating individuals.
Literature on the Russian Penal Experience
Recent books discussing the Russian penal system provide critical insights into the conditions and historical contexts faced by inmates. Notable works, such as 'The Prisoner', portray the experiences of those caught in political machinations, emphasizing bureaucratic failures and the ordinariness of life in severe conditions. Additionally, resources like 'Soviet Gulag: History and Memory' offer brief but comprehensive overviews of the Gulag system's impact on society and memory associated with repression. Understanding these narratives is crucial for recognizing the ongoing legacy of the penal system in contemporary Russia, where the past informs the present treatment of dissidents and prisoners alike.
With Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich sentenced to 16 years on what I consider wholly spurious espionage charges (and I explain why I think this), it's a suitable moment first to consider the likely reasons but also what kind of experience faces him in the Russian prison camp system.
That leads me on to discuss three recent books of relevance:
The Eurasian Knot podcast I mentioned with Anna Arutunyan and me talking about our book Downfall is here.
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