The Global Story
The Russians snitching on each other for anti-war views
Sep 13, 2024
Katya Adler, a savvy journalist focused on Russian geopolitics, joins seasoned Russia editor Steve Rosenberg to discuss a troubling trend of citizens reporting anti-war views post-Ukraine invasion. They delve into the historical context of denunciations, drawing chilling parallels to the Soviet era. Personal stories highlight the culture of fear and repression, exemplified by individuals facing harsh consequences for dissent. The conversation also touches on resilient voices like 87-year-old Dimitri, who continues to fight for free speech against immense societal pressure.
26:35
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Quick takeaways
- The surge in denunciations in Russia reflects a chilling return to Soviet-era practices, where personal grievances fuel a culture of fear and suspicion.
- Individual cases, such as a pediatrician facing severe charges for anti-war comments, illustrate the alarming consequences of reporting dissent under repressive laws.
Deep dives
The Rise of Informing in Russia
After the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia implemented strict laws that criminalized dissent against the military, leading to a surge in citizens informing on one another. These laws made it punishable to discredit the armed forces or spread alleged false information, effectively fostering an environment of mutual suspicion. The government has promoted a narrative that divides society into patriots and traitors, encouraging individuals to report those they believe to be undesirable. This has led many Russians to take justice into their own hands, resulting in alarming incidents of denunciation among neighbors, coworkers, and even family members.
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