Russian lawmakers approved Thursday a bill that expands government control over internet and whose opponents fear heralds new era of widespread censorship.
Russia articles on Democracy Chronicles
News about the struggle for democracy in Russia. Russia is not a functioning democracy. According to Freedom House, "limited political competition, assassination, and repression are used by dictator Vladimir Putin to maintain control". Also see our articles on Putin or on two of his public opponents Alexei Navalny and the punk band Pussy Riot.
Blockchain Voting: Unwelcome Disruption or Senseless Distraction?
Internet voting is not the same as online banking; it is more complex due to the fact that there must be separation of the transaction from the person’s identity.
Crimean Tatars’ Leader: Russian Detentions Aim at Purging Followers
Moscow’s recent raids in Simferopol are part of broader effort to suppress activists in the Russian-controlled Black Sea Peninsula said Refat Chubarov.
Crimea Arrests Are Aimed at Silencing and Marginalizing Tatars
The persecution of the Crimean Tatar community in Crimea is an ongoing reminder of how respect for human rights and democracy has precipitously declined.
Russian Rights Defender Facing Four-Year Prison Term
A Chechen court is scheduled to issue the verdict against Oyub Titiev, a human rights defender with the Russian group Memorial, on March 18, 2019.
Putin Signs Into Law Bills Banning Insults Against Government
President Putin has signed legislation enabling Russian authorities to block websites and punishment for “fake news” and material deemed insulting .
Kazakhstan’s Soviet-Era Dictator Resigns After 30 Years
Kazakhstans soviet era dictator Nursultan Nazaraev, who has ruled for the last 30 years, announced his resignation today which for many was a shock.
Russian Lawmakers Speed to Punish Criticism of the Government
Ahead of a vote in Russia’s Federation Council on legislation dramatically increasing fines for online publication of alleged “fake news” and online speech .
Top Chechen Official Claims Blood Feud Against Blogger
Top Chenchen official has declared blood feud against popular exiled blogger in what appears to be another example of intimidation of critics in Chechnya.
Mass Rally Against Moves to Tighten Control on Russian Internet
Activists in Russia have kicked off demonstrations against a new bill, which its critics say is part of an effort to facilitate censorship.