RUSSIA, RELEASE ALEKSEI GORINOV!

Dear Prosecutor General,

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the case of Aleksei Gorinov, a former municipal councilor of the Krasnoselsky District in Moscow, who is serving seven years in prison, and is now facing an additional charge for merely exercising his right to freedom of expression.

In July 2022, Aleksei Gorinov was convicted under Article 207.3 of the Criminal Code for referring to the conflict in Ukraine as a “war” and discussing the deaths of children resulting from it. His imprisonment under the “war censorship laws” (Articles 207.3 and 280.3 of the Criminal Code) highlights the suppression of freedom of expression and the criminalization of dissent in Russia.

In addition, while serving his sentence, Aleksei Gorinov was accused of “justification of terrorism” for sharing his views about the war with another prisoner. I am concerned that merely sharing his opinion, which didn’t cause anyone’s harm, led to serious charges and may result in a longer prison sentence and further violate Aleksei Gorinov’s rights.

Furthermore, Aleksei Gorinov’s health has significantly deteriorated while in detention. He has been repeatedly placed in a penal cell for minor infractions and denied adequate medical care.

I urge you to drop the charges against Aleksei Gorinov and overturn his previous conviction, as well as release him immediately and unconditionally. I also call on you to reconsider the application of the war censorship laws and the anti-terrorism and anti-extremism legislation, which are being used to violate the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

Sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]