"A new low"

A group of UN experts has criticized the recent decision of the Russian Constitutional Court on legislation criminalizing speech that discredits the armed forces. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights issued this news release. Excerpt:

“We are seriously concerned about the implications of the decision for many legal cases brought against individuals for expressing themselves critically or for participating in demonstrations against the war in Ukraine,” the experts said. They warned that scores of activists, journalists and human rights defenders face harsh punishments ranging from five to 15 years imprisonment.

“We respectfully urge the Constitutional Court to change course and guarantee freedom of expression in Russia, and urge Russian authorities to repeal the legislation,” the experts said.