Anyone with little knowledge of typical life in Vladimir Putin’s Russia, may view the country as one shrouded by conservativism and oppression. The Russian Government’s notoriety regarding its strict, conservative value system can be exemplified by the anti-propaganda law passed in 2013, forbidding the promotion of LGBT+ lifestyles to children. However, the recent protests which have erupted across Russia over the arrest of Putin’s opposition, Alexei Navalny, have brought to the surface the voices of those calling for radical change, whose voices have always been present in Russia.
Navalny, who is leader of the Russia of the Future Party, was detained by Russian Police on 17th January 2021 over allegations of parole violation after he returned to Russia from Germany, where he had been recovering from being poisoned in August last year. Navalny claims he was poisoned by the Russian Government, although the Kremlin denies any involvement in the incident. Whilst jailed, an exposé was released on Navalny’s YouTube channel, titled ‘Putin’s Palace. History of the world’s largest bribe’, accusing the President of corruption, and calling for nationwide protests. The video currently has over 110 million views, and outrage amongst Russian citizens has resulted in mass protests across the country. These protests have led to a wave of violence from Russian police towards protestors, leaving thousands either jailed or injured.
Many have flocked to social media to call for Navalny’s release and raise awareness for Russia’s political unrest. Though, one thing which is particularly fascinating about the Russian presence on social media is the variety in these voices, showcasing political activism in many facets of Russian society from fashion to entertainment to sport. For example, former captain of the Russian national football team, Igor Denisov, released a video advocating for the release of Navalny, whilst popular music artist Кис-Кис (translation: Kitty-Kitty) posted a photo to their Instagram wearing shirts reading ‘Не Молчи’, which means ‘Do Not Be Silent’. As well, one indie clothing brand called Unique has released clothing depicting the Russian flag emoji adjacent to the heartbroken emoji.
From a third-party perspective, Russia may appear oppressive and hostile, but this assumption fails to acknowledge the people dissatisfied with the Russian government, who demand for their country to be changed for the better. The variety in these voices online symbolises a hope for Russia’s future that sees an end to its strict, conservative value system. It’s time we start listening.
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