Persecution of «disloyal» individuals in culture industry in Russia: 41 people imprisoned, 176 facing pressure

In February 2022, many individuals from the culture industry publicly denounced the invasion of Ukraine. Actors, musicians, comedians, and painters signed an open letter about the destruction of multinational cultural connections. Additionally, many people posted the slogan 'No to war! ' on their social media profiles.

Later, members of the creative industry who opposed the war began to face both direct and indirect pressure from security forces and pro-government individuals.

Artists such as the band Mashina Vremeni, Valery Meladze, and rapper Noize MC had their concerts canceled. At a performance by stand-up comedian Dan The Stranger (Denis Chuzhoy) in Vologda, someone brought a wreath that read, 'To the traitor of Russia'. Additionally, Telegram channels associated with the Federal Security Service shared sensitive information about theatre artists deemed «disloyal».

Artists had faced pressure even before the war. For instance, in the summer of 2021, several shows by the music band AloeVera were canceled. Additionally, in autumn 2018, reports from The Bell indicated that young musicians like IC3PEAK, Face, and Eldzhey had a total of 40 shows canceled.

In 2023, several actors and musicians who had previously condemned the war decided to make a deal with the Russian authorities. According to information from Meduza and Important Stories, some artists began performing in occupied territories after meetings with representatives from the presidential administration. In return, they were granted the opportunity to continue their work in Russia.

Other musicians who left the country due to safety reasons continue to make music in exile, including Monetochka, Noize MC, AIGEL, Yuri Shevchuk, Boris Grebenshchikov, and others.

Unfortunately, even after emigrating, individuals continue to face the consequences of persecution. For example, since receiving the «foreign agent» status, Maksim Pokrovsky, the leader of Nogu Svelo, reported experiencing financial losses, and comedian Tatiana Lazareva revealed that some people have refused to collaborate with her.

Criminal cases

In addition to unofficial pressure, creative workers face direct criminal persecution for their professional activities. These cases are not always directly related to the war.

One of the best known cases is the persecution of stage director Evgenia Berkovich and playwright Svetlana Petriychuk, based on allegations of justifying terrorism under Part 2, Article 205.2 of the Russian criminal code.