More concerns have surfaced today over the new FSB bill to ‘combat extremism’ submitted to the Duma last week.  Today the Power Vertical’s Robert Coalson relays some criticisms drawn from INDEM foundation head Georgy Satarov, who has analyzed the bill’s small print, or rather the ‘explanatory note’ which accompanies it.  His reading reveals more disquieting implications to add to the fears about media freedom already apprehended:

First, Satarov mentions that the bill is directed against “the actions of people that facilitate the appearance of reasons or the creation of circumstances for the commission of a crime.” Under the bill, Satarov speculates, the FSB could theoretically take “preventative measures” against the Duma for passing a law that creates opportunities for corruption. Or it could go after the president for signing such a law or the government for enforcing it…. By such logic, the FSB could act preemptively against minorities for creating the conditions under which some neo-Nazi skinheads might want to beat them up. Jews could be harassed for inciting anti-Semitism by being Jewish. Police officers could be arrested for provoking violent anarchists.