Russian Constitutional Court Refuses to Cancel Article Discrediting Army
In a recent ruling, the Russian Constitutional Court has refused to cancel an article that criminalizes the act of “discrediting” the army. The decision comes after a complaint was filed by a group of lawyers from human rights and activist organizations, including “OVD-Info,” “Memorial,” and “Rusj Sidyashaya.”
The complaint argued that the article on discrediting the army is discriminatory as it violates citizens’ rights to freedom of opinion and speech, as well as the right to assembly. However, the court rejected this argument, stating that public support is crucial for the effectiveness of the Russian army.
According to the court, criticizing the army weakens its decisiveness and motivation, while also inadvertently aiding the forces that are fighting against Russian interests. The court further emphasized that the decisions made by Russian authorities should not be questioned, as they are aimed at protecting Russia, its citizens, and maintaining international peace and security.
It is worth noting that the clause criminalizing the act of discrediting the army was added to Russia’s code of administrative offenses shortly after the country launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February of last year. Additionally, a similar article was included in the Russian Criminal Code, which carries a prison sentence of up to seven years. The Criminal Code also introduced an article on spreading false news about the army, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
Since March 2022, more than 7,180 cases of discrediting the army have been submitted to Russian courts, highlighting the strict enforcement of these laws. The refusal to cancel the article by the Constitutional Court further solidifies the government’s stance on protecting the reputation and image of the Russian army.
Critics argue that these laws infringe upon freedom of expression and limit the ability of individuals to voice their opinions and hold the government accountable. However, the court’s decision reflects the government’s belief that maintaining public support and unity is crucial for the country’s security and stability.
As the debate surrounding the balance between national security and individual rights continues, it remains to be seen how these laws will impact freedom of expression and dissent in Russia.
What was the argument made by the coalition of human rights and activist organizations in their complaint against the article criminalizing army discrediting?
Title: Russian Constitutional Court Upholds Article Criminalizing Army Discrediting
In a recent ruling, the Russian Constitutional Court has chosen not to cancel an article that imposes criminal charges for “discrediting” the army. The decision comes as a response to a complaint filed by a coalition of human rights and activist organizations, including “OVD-Info,” “Memorial,” and “Rusj Sidyashaya.”
The complaint argued that the article on discrediting the army is discriminatory and infringes upon citizens’ rights to freedom of opinion, speech, and assembly. However, the court dismissed this argument, emphasizing the importance of public support for the effectiveness of the Russian army.
According to the court, criticizing the army weakens its determination and motivation, inadvertently benefiting those opposing Russian interests. Furthermore, the court highlighted the imperative of not questioning decisions made by Russian authorities aimed at protecting the nation, its citizens, and maintaining international peace and security.
It is noteworthy that the clause criminalizing the act of discrediting the army was included in Russia’s code of administrative offenses shortly after the country launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February of last year. Additionally, a similar article was introduced in the Russian Criminal Code, imposing a potential prison sentence of up to seven years. The Criminal Code also introduced an article penalizing the spreading of false news about the army, carrying a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
Since March 2022, Russian courts have received over 7,180 cases related to discrediting the army, indicating the rigorous enforcement of these laws. The Constitutional Court’s refusal to cancel the article further asserts the government’s commitment to safeguarding the reputation and image of the Russian army.
Critics argue that these laws impede upon freedom of expression and limit individuals’ ability to voice their opinions and hold the government accountable. Nonetheless, the court’s decision reflects the government’s belief that maintaining public support and solidarity is vital for the country’s security and stability.
As the debate surrounding the delicate balance between national security and individual rights persists, the impact of these laws on freedom of expression and dissent in Russia remains to be seen.
It is concerning to see that a Russian court has rejected a complaint challenging a discriminatory article discrediting the army. This decision raises questions about freedom of speech and the government’s commitment to promoting equal rights within their armed forces.