Russia's Abuse of National Security Laws to Silence Opposition
Russia's use of national security and public safety laws to silence opposition to the war in Ukraine has reached "alarming levels", according to Mariana Katzarova, the UN independent expert who monitors human rights in Russia.
Russia is using a "rule of fear" to silence anti-war dissent.
In a report to the UN General Assembly, Katzarova stated that over the past three years, "thousands have been imprisoned on politically motivated charges, including treason, espionage, extremism and terrorism, often on fabricated evidence and in closed trials, with detainees ranging from children to the elderly."
- Treason
- Espionage
- Extremism
- Terrorism
Katzarova's report reveals a sustained pattern of using national security and public safety laws to criminalise dissent and suppress civic space.
Author's summary: Russia silences opposition using fear and abuse of laws.