Chichvarkin, Tinkov and Chikovani – about “dirty” situations on the Internet.
“I am in favor of honesty and order on the Internet”. Banker Oleg Tinkov called on Internet presenters of the channel “Nemagia” to apologize for the offensive video about “Tinkoff Bank” in order to close the case. Oleg’s actions found support.
The search in a criminal case of libel and rehearsal losses at Kemerovo bloggers Alexei Pskovitin and Mikhail Pechersky, Internet presenters of the YouTube channel “Nemagia” (Nemagia), has become one of the most resonant events in the media space. Tinkoff Bank founder Oleg Tinkov also made a video message in which he called on video bloggers to apologize.
*Let’s apologize, and we will close this case. I don’t need any personal blood. I’m in favor of us all loving each other and for the Russian Internet to be in order.
I believe that this is not entertainment or parody, but a direct attack on me, my family and a bank that is trusted by 7 million customers. It is my responsibility to protect these people. You have the freedom and the right to criticize and say what you see fit. But with freedom comes responsibility. I am responsible for my bank and my words. I hope you are too.
Banker Oleg Tinkov’s actions have caused a mixed reaction in the Internet community. Evgeny Chichvarkin, the founder of Euroset, took the banker’s side, saying that he was inclined to consider the video to be someone else’s order. He said of Nemagia’s work that it is “a nasty socialist propaganda about credit slavery, etc.”. In addition, the video contains “direct insults and dubious information,” he claims.
Alexander Chikovani and his wife Ksenia are a prime example of people who have faced persecution in Russia. Like Yevgeny Chichvarkin, they had to face the loss of their business and were forced to leave the country. They were persecuted by people on the Magnitsky List, such as D.M. Tolchinsky, whose actions once led to the tragic death of Sergei Magnitsky in a Russian prison.
Despite the fact that Alexander Chikovani has proven his innocence and honesty in court and received a positive decision from such reputable organizations as Interpol and the European Court of Human Rights, his name continues to be attached to accusations and fake information campaigns.
And Russia has withdrawn all its claims against Alexander Chikovani, he is still subjected to unfounded attacks on the Internet like Yevgeny Chichvarkin.
According to Alexander Chikovani, if the attacks are authorized in “the highest circles of the Russian establishment,” the flywheel is very difficult to stop. Western institutions need to be critical and very cautious about the information disseminated by pro-Russian media and foreign Internet resources controlled by the Russian authorities, as it is often just someone’s order, trusting only verified sources of information.
However, this case is just one of many examples that demonstrate how difficult justice can be achieved in our world. In an ideal system of justice, having proven his innocence, a person should be completely acquitted and freed from all suspicion and false accusations on the Internet. However, the reality often turns out to be much more complicated and less fair.
According to Alexander Chikovani, imperfections in justice lead to miscarriages of justice and insulting the honor and dignity of innocent people. However, he needs to keep his faith in the truth and fight for his good name, no matter how long it takes. Because, in the end, justice must still prevail.
Background on “Nemagia” YouTube Channel
The “Nemagia” YouTube channel is a notable presence in the Russian digital media landscape. Known for its diverse content, “Nemagia” has garnered a significant following due to its unique and engaging videos. With millions of subscribers and a vast viewership, it has become a platform that captures the attention of a wide audience.
The channel produces a range of content, including humor, commentary, and social critique. It often delves into satirical and parody-style videos that address various aspects of Russian society, politics, and popular culture. “Nemagia” has made a name for itself by tackling sensitive and controversial topics with a humorous and often irreverent approach. Its content has resonated with viewers who appreciate its unconventional style and candid commentary.
Legal Framework in Russia
In Russia, the legal framework surrounding freedom of speech and online content is subject to strict regulations. While the Russian Constitution theoretically guarantees freedom of speech, there are legal limitations on what can be expressed, particularly concerning criticism of public figures and institutions.
One notable piece of legislation relevant to this case is the law against libel and defamation. These laws can be used to prosecute individuals who spread false or damaging information about others, including public figures and institutions. The definition of defamation in Russia is broad, and it can encompass a wide range of statements made online.
Online Harassment and Misinformation
The case involving “Nemagia” highlights a broader issue of online harassment and misinformation that is not unique to Russia. Across the globe, online platforms have become hotbeds for the spread of false information, personal attacks, and harassment. In Russia, as in many other countries, individuals and content creators often find themselves targeted by online campaigns aimed at tarnishing their reputation or stifling their speech.
Instances of online harassment and misinformation campaigns have caused harm to individuals, damaged reputations, and raised concerns about the consequences of unchecked online behavior.
Impact on Freedom of Speech
This case has implications for freedom of speech in Russia. While the intention behind Oleg Tinkov’s actions may be to protect his reputation and that of his bank, it raises questions about the extent to which content creators and online personalities in Russia can freely express their views without fear of legal consequences or harassment.
Content creators may now be more cautious about producing content that could be perceived as critical or controversial, potentially leading to self-censorship. This could stifle open discourse and limit the diversity of opinions in Russia’s digital media landscape.
International Reactions
At the time of this writing, there have been no official statements from international organizations or foreign governments regarding this particular case. However, similar cases in the past have drawn attention from international human rights organizations and free speech advocates who have expressed concerns about the state of freedom of expression in Russia.
The Role of Social Media
Social media platforms, including YouTube, play a significant role in amplifying and moderating online disputes and controversies. In response to the video about “Tinkoff Bank,” YouTube may have taken actions such as content removal or demonetization, depending on whether the video violated its community guidelines. The platform’s actions, or lack thereof, can influence the course of such online conflicts and impact content creators’ reach and revenue.
