Exklusiv intervju med Nobels fredspristagare Dmitrij Muratov
Dmitrij Muratov, recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, recently sat down for an exclusive interview with Aftonbladet to discuss his work as editor-in-chief of the Russian independent newsroom Novaya Gazeta and the current state of human rights in Russia.
In the interview, Muratov shares his concerns about the many Russian human rights fighters who are currently behind bars, describing them as thin, bald, and powerless. He points to a man in particular, whose glasses are almost falling off his gaunt face, and expresses worry for his well-being, especially as he has five children.
During his talk at the Nobel Museum in Stockholm, Muratov displayed pictures of Russian journalist Yelena Milashina, who sustained a severe bruise on her back after being beaten during a reporting trip in Chechnya. He used this as an example to illustrate the state of freedom of expression in Russia.
Muratov also spoke about the importance of using his status as a Nobel laureate to help others, rather than himself. He carried pictures of another Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Mikhail Gorbachev, with him in an envelope, showcasing his friendship with the former Soviet leader.
The interview also touched upon Muratov’s previous decision to auction his Nobel medal for a record-breaking $103.5 million, which he then donated to the UN children’s fund UNICEF to assist Ukrainian refugee children. Muratov believes that everyone should do what they can to help those in need, particularly the 240 million children who go to bed hungry in Africa.
The discussion turned to the issue of political prisoners in Russia, with Muratov emphasizing the need for regular exchanges of political prisoners between countries. He argued that those who have sacrificed their lives and health for the rights of others belong to humanity, regardless of their nationality.
Despite facing censorship and limitations on their work, Muratov and Novaya Gazeta continue to document human rights violations in Russia. They follow “war censorship” guidelines to ensure the safety of their employees but remain committed to shedding light on the injustices taking place.
Muratov also urged people to write letters to political prisoners, as their executioners want them to be forgotten. He called attention to Russian opposition politician Vladimir Kara-Murza, who is currently serving a 25-year prison sentence and is in poor health.
When asked about the fall of the Putin regime, Muratov emphasized that it requires the people to take control of their own destinies and not to silently support propaganda. He called on European citizens to use their voices and create an international anti-war movement.
Finally, Muratov highlighted the importance of not singling out all Russians, explaining that there are those who support Putin and those who do not. He stressed that collective punishment and human rights cannot coexist and called for the respect and protection of human rights, even during times of tragedy.
In conclusion, Muratov expressed his concerns about the current climate in Russia, where expressing one’s opinions can result in severe consequences. He encouraged individuals to avoid risking other people’s lives and to find alternate ways to advocate for change.