The Documentary Podcast The Fifth Floor: The Russian grandma who went to jail
May 10, 2025
Nina Nazarova, a diligent BBC Russian journalist, investigates the remarkable journey of Natalya Filonova, a Russian grandmother and former kindergarten teacher who became an activist against the war in Ukraine, facing severe legal challenges. Meanwhile, Joao Fellet from BBC Brasil shares an inspiring story about a community coming together to support a homeless bumblebee in São Paulo, highlighting the importance of resilience in both nature and society. Together, they explore themes of courage, community, and the fight for justice.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Natalia's Activism and Arrest
- Natalia Filonova, a 63-year-old Russian grandmother and activist, was arrested for protesting against the war and military mobilization in 2022.
- Despite being a peaceful protester, she faced criminal charges after allegedly scratching a police officer during her arrest.
Risking Freedom to Find Son
- Under house arrest, Natalia risked breaking her confinement to find her foster son Vova who had stopped answering his phone.
- This led police to accuse her of causing serious bodily harm to officers, resulting in her imprisonment.
Vova's Orphanage Ordeal
- While Natalia was in prison, her foster son Vova was taken from hospital and placed in an orphanage far from home.
- Prosecutors tried to pressure Natalia to plead guilty by linking Vova's release to her confession, but she refused.