In recent years, Russia has witnessed a growing trend of apology videos, in which individuals are made to publicly apologize for their actions or statements. These videos, often released by police or state media, aim to humiliate individuals who criticize the government or express opinions against the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The phenomenon first gained prominence in 2015 when apology videos started emerging in the Russian republic of Chechnya. Most of these videos featured people apologizing for criticizing Chechnya’s leader, Ramzan Kadyrov. One video even showed a man apologizing for being gay. The trend then spread to other regions of the North Caucasus and gained traction in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The apology videos are often filmed in sparse, police-like settings and employ language typical of police reports, giving them an air of official sanction. Many of these videos are published on social media platforms or by state media, while some are released through official police accounts. It is believed that the involvement of the police in these videos is intended to intimidate individuals who may not publicly support the war in Ukraine.
The content of the apology videos varies widely, ranging from individuals expressing remorse for defacing pro-war graffiti to criticizing government policies. For instance, a singer named Sharlot burned his passport in protest against Russia’s actions and was later arrested. In the apology video, he recanted his actions and claimed a “lapse in understanding.”
However, there have been allegations that these apology videos are often recorded under duress. Several individuals have come forward, detailing instances of police coercion, physical abuse, and sexual assault. The use of duress in obtaining these apologies raises questions about their authenticity and validity.
The apology videos have not been limited to Russia itself but have also been utilized in Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine. Occupied Crimea, in particular, has seen a significant number of apology videos, with individuals being pressured to apologize for sharing Ukrainian songs or images associated with the Ukrainian flag. Notably, two-thirds of the apology videos monitored by Russian human rights website OVD-Info during a 16-month period were from Crimea.
Critics argue that these apology videos amount to extrajudicial punishment and violate personal freedoms. Russian social anthropologist Aleksandra Arkhipova describes them as “rituals of guilt and shame.” She asserts that the videos serve as a means of control, reinforcing a hierarchical dynamic akin to an overbearing father. Individuals are made to apologize to the government, emulating a paternalistic authority structure.
The impact of these apology videos extends beyond the individuals involved, as they contribute to a climate of fear and self-censorship. Many Russians may refrain from expressing dissent or challenging the government due to the potential consequences of invoking the authorities’ ire. This erodes public discourse and stifles democratic values.
It is important to be cautious and critical when consuming or discussing these apology videos. While they may provide insight into the current political climate in Russia, it is essential to consider the possible coercion and manipulation involved. Care should be taken not to inadvertently perpetuate the humiliation and intimidation tactics employed by those in power.
The rising trend of humiliating apology videos in Russia underscores the erosion of civil liberties and the suppression of dissent. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who dare to criticize the government or express unpopular opinions. As the phenomenon continues to gain traction, it is crucial to question the ethics and implications of such public apologies in a democratic society.
