A warrant for the arrest of exiled anti-war activist and feminist poet Daria Serenko has been issued by Russia on unknown charges. Serenko, who fled to Georgia after Russia invaded Ukraine, is known for her feminist and anti-war writings and is a coordinator for Feminist Anti-War Resistance, a movement against Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. Despite being listed as a wanted person, no specific criminal allegations have been disclosed against Serenko.
In addition to Serenko, exiled journalist Mikhail Zygar also received a similar arrest warrant around the same time. Serenko responded to the warrant with a lighthearted comment on Instagram, indicating that she is hard to find, easy to lose, and impossible to forget. The warrant issued against her is just one example of the Russian government targeting individuals who are involved in activism against their military actions in Ukraine.
The Justice Ministry of Russia labeled Feminist Anti-War Resistance, which Serenko is a co-organizer of, as a “foreign agent” in December 2022. Following this, Serenko herself was also labeled as a “foreign agent.” This labeling and subsequent arrest warrant are part of a broader crackdown on dissent in Russia, particularly against those who speak out against the government’s aggression in Ukraine. These actions are viewed as an attempt to silence critics and prevent the spread of anti-war sentiment within the country.
Serenko’s willingness to continue her activism despite the threats against her is a testament to her dedication to her beliefs. By responding to the arrest warrant with humor and defiance, she is sending a message that she will not be intimidated or deterred by the Russian government’s attempts to silence her. Her resilience and courage in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to others who are fighting for justice and peace in difficult circumstances.
The actions taken against Serenko and other activists by the Russian government highlight the increasingly oppressive environment for dissenting voices in the country. By targeting individuals involved in anti-war movements and labeling them as “foreign agents,” the government is attempting to stifle opposition and prevent the spread of ideas that challenge their narrative. However, activists like Serenko continue to resist and speak out against injustice, risking their own safety to fight for a more just and peaceful world.
As the situation in Ukraine continues to unfold and tensions between Russia and the West remain high, the targeting of activists like Daria Serenko is a reminder of the importance of supporting those who are bravely standing up against injustice. By amplifying their voices and raising awareness of their plight, we can help to shine a light on the struggles they face and show solidarity with their efforts to create a more peaceful and just world. Only by working together can we hope to overcome the forces of oppression and violence that threaten the safety and well-being of people everywhere.
