Key figures in Russia’s publishing industry, including a director of one of Russia’s leading publishers, have been detained following a series of targeted raids by law enforcement. They are facing extremism charges, though the specific nature of these charges has not yet been disclosed. Among those arrested is Anatoly Norovyatkin, the longtime distribution director at Eksmo, as well as people associated with publishing houses acquired by Eksmo in 2023: Popcorn Books, known for its focus on queer young adult fiction, and Individuum, a non-fiction publishing imprint.
At this rate, even if Putin dies tomorrow, it will take decades before Russia can experience the level of personal freedom it had in the late 80s and 90s. Very sad.
What was the level of personal freedom in the late 80-90?
Press was relatively free. There was a lot of independent journalism. Other forms of expression were also available, particularly in music and political satire.
