What’s just happened?
Protests in Russia broke out on 23rd January 2021 supporting Alexei Navalny after he was arrested following the release of the film “Putin’s Palace”, uncovering a connection between President Vladimir Putin and a palace that is allegedly being built for him. [1] With more than 5,000 individuals detained, Moscow police had to block off the city centre as well as metro stations. Navalny was arrested when he returned to Russia after his recovery from a recent attempt on his life. [2]
Russian President Vladimir Putin has denied reports claiming he is the owner of the palace, which Navalny claims in his video that has been spread around Russia. [3]
What does this mean?
Protesting in Russia is extremely risky. Even if one were to escape the police batons they can be fired at or face a heavy fine, sometimes even criminal prosecution. This shows the effect the video has had on the country as the protests continue to take place even though the public are aware of what can happen. [4] Authorities attempted to prevent large crowds by blocking off Moscow but were faced with protestors waving victory signs instead. Many protesters have claimed they aren’t followers of Navalny but are out to support him because of how he is being treated. [5]
Rallies took place in Eastern Russia in Novosibirsk, where approximately 2,000 people had marched through the city chanting “Putin is a thief”. This is a place where the temperature drops to -40C, yet the public were willing to walk on the streets to defend someone they believe is facing unjust actions. [6] The OVD-Info monitoring group have said the police have detained more than 5,000 individuals from protests in 86 cities across the country. A majority of Navalny’s associates have also been detained including his brother, and his wife, activist Maria Alyokhina who have been put under house arrest. In Moscow police are now struggling to find space in jail for Navalny’s supporters. [7]
This protest is not just for Alexei Navalny, Russians are protesting because country’s system needs a change. Although Navalny did make a video exposing the president, it wasn’t just this event that has triggered the public to go out and protest. Rather, it’s economic inequality that is the real reason most people are against Putin. Many weren’t surprised by the claims made by Navalny in his Putin Palace investigation and believe that individuals close to Putin live similar luxury lifestyles. Many have claimed they already know the government steals from them, but Navalny gave them the final push to get onto the streets. [8] Indeed, the elderly don’t have money to retire, there are limited funds to help critically ill children. Many people in Russia aren’t able to live, they are just surviving. [9]
Written by Atiqa Ashraf
Assessing firms:
#Dentons #Clifford Chance #Gowling WLG #Addison Aaron #Hogan Lovells International LLP #White & Case LLP #Baker McKenzie
References:
[1] Frye, T., 2021. Weak Strongman: The Limits of Power in Putin's Russia. Princeton University Press.
[2] Roache, M,. 2021. Time: The Whole System Needs Changing.
[3] Rainsford, S,. 2021. BBC News: Navalny: Thousand join fresh protests across Russia
[4] Ibid
[5] Ibid
[6] Ibid
[7] Ibid
[8] Roth,. R. 2021. Guardian: Alexei Navalny protests
[9] Ibid
[10] Roache, M,. 2021. Time: The Inside Story of How Alexey Navalny Uncovered Putin’s $1.3 Billion Palace.
Disclaimer: This article (and any information accessed through links in this article) is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.