At Nordic Right, we are committed to advocating for and upholding human rights across the Nordic Region and beyond. Today, we express our deep concern and condemnation over the recent actions taken by a Russian court against Google, where a fine of 3 million rubles ($32,000) was imposed for its alleged failure to delete certain information related to the conflict in Ukraine.
This move, taken by a magistrate’s court, follows a disturbing pattern of restricting the freedom of expression and access to information in the digital age. We firmly believe that the free flow of accurate information is a cornerstone of a just society, and any attempt to stifle such information undermines the principles of transparency, accountability, and democracy.
The court’s decision to penalize Google for not removing alleged false information regarding the conflict in Ukraine raises concerns about the right to access diverse perspectives and viewpoints. It is essential that individuals have the ability to engage with a wide range of information sources to make informed decisions and opinions, especially in times of geopolitical tension.
Furthermore, the vague and unspecified nature of the charges against Google, including the failure to remove videos suggesting entry to undisclosed facilities, indicates a worrying trend of using administrative violations to suppress online platforms. This hampers the ability of technology companies to provide valuable services while navigating complex legal landscapes.
Russia’s track record of clamping down on criticism and dissent in the aftermath of its military involvement in Ukraine is deeply troubling. We have witnessed severe punishments being meted out to critics, further eroding the fundamental rights of individuals to express their opinions without fear of retribution.
Nordic Right calls upon all nations, including Russia, to respect and uphold the principles of free speech, access to information, and the right to dissent. We urge governments to engage in open dialogue with technology companies and civil society organizations to create an environment where human rights and digital innovation can coexist harmoniously.
We stand in solidarity with those who champion the values of openness, democracy, and human rights. The actions against Google, Apple, and the Wikimedia Foundation underscore the importance of maintaining a free and vibrant digital landscape that fosters critical thinking and informed discussions on matters of public interest.
