Summary
The Nobel Peace Prize committee criticized Russia's move to classify the human rights group Memorial as an "extremist organization." This designation could lead to Memorial being banned in Russia, and members could face prison time and fines. Memorial, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022, works to document human rights abuses in Russia.
Key Facts
- The Nobel Peace Prize committee condemns Russia's attempt to label Memorial an "extremist organization."
- Memorial was a co-recipient of the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize.
- Russia's Supreme Court is reviewing a petition that could add Memorial to Russia's list of "undesirable" entities.
- The designation could lead to a ban on Memorial's operations in Russia.
- People associated with Memorial may face up to four years in prison and fines.
- Memorial was previously declared a "foreign agent" and ordered dissolved in Russia in 2021.
- Memorial documents human rights abuses and had about 50 organizations across Russia before the ban.
- Some Memorial leaders are now working outside Russia after facing legal issues.
