Russian Playwright and Director Sentenced for ‘Justifying Terrorism’

Russian Playwright and Director Sentenced to Prison for “Justifying Terrorism”

A Russian military court has sentenced playwright Svetlana Petriychuk, 44, and theater director Yevgenia Berkovich, 39, to six years in prison each for “justifying terrorism.” This case has raised concerns about the crackdown on free speech in Russia following the country’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Both Petriychuk and Berkovich, who are prominent figures in the Russian theater world, have been in custody since May 2023. In addition to their prison terms, they will be prohibited from “administering websites” for three years after their release – a punishment requested by prosecutors.

The play at the center of the controversy, titled “Finist the Brave Falcon,” is a reinterpretation of a classic fairy tale intertwined with the stories of women who were lured into joining the Islamic State by men online. The play reflects the real-life experiences of women recruited by ISIS, with the main character facing betrayal and imprisonment upon her return to Russia.

During the trial, the prosecutor claimed that Petriychuk espoused “extremely aggressive Islamic ideologies” and sympathized with ISIS, while Berkovich was accused of promoting terrorism through her ideological beliefs. However, both women and their legal representatives maintained their innocence, emphasizing that the play conveys an anti-terror message.

When defending herself, Berkovich stated, “I have never supported radical Islam or terrorism in any form. I have deep respect for the religion of Islam and condemn terrorists and their actions.”