The Russians snitching on each other for anti-war views
Sep 13, 2024
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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.
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.
Personal Experiences of Denunciation
Individual stories of denunciation highlight the personal impact of this repressive environment, exemplified by the case of a 68-year-old pediatrician facing severe charges for alleged anti-war comments. A mother reported the doctor after claiming she overheard her saying that Russian soldiers were legitimate targets in a private conversation. The doctor’s life drastically changed as she was arrested and faced up to ten years in prison, raising concerns about due process, especially given that the accusations rely on one person's word without substantial evidence. This case exemplifies how personal grievances can morph into serious legal consequences, fueling a culture of fear among citizens.
Historical Context and Human Nature
The current wave of denunciation in Russia recalls the historical practices of the Soviet era, where citizens were actively encouraged to inform on one another for personal or ideological gain. Experts note that this behavior is rooted not only in government instigation but also reflects deeper human traits, as fear and self-preservation motivations often lead individuals to betray those around them. Personal conflicts can escalate into accusations against neighbors, as seen in the court case involving a hairdresser denounced by her neighbor amidst a broader dispute. Such instances highlight how the societal context can unleash darker aspects of human character, echoing the fear-based societal dynamics of the past.
Ever since the Kremlin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine there have been widespread reports of Russians reporting fellow citizens to the police for anti-war views; often leading to prosecution and, in some cases, prison sentences. It’s revived memories of the Soviet past when informing on colleagues and neighbours was actively encouraged.
Katya Adler speaks to our Russia editor Steve Rosenberg about the people he has met who have been caught up in this new wave of denunciations.
The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.
Producers: Alice Aylett Roberts, Eleanor Sly and Beth Timmins.
Sound Engineers: Antonio Fernandes and Rohan Madison.
Assistant Editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas.
Senior News Editor: Richard Fenton-Smith.
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