Issue and Opponent: Climate change in Russia has always been an issue of concern, however apathy among the public cannot be changed due to crackdowns on any forms of protest or dissent. One law in Russia prevents protestors from participating in unsanctioned protests in parties of more than 1.
Dilemma Action: Environmental Activist, Arshak Makichyan is aware of the laws regarding protests in Russia, however, he circumvents them by using single-picket protests and stands alone in Moscow’s Pushkin Square each Friday to raise awareness for climate change. Despite the challenges by local authorities who frequently check his documents or accuse him of being paid by political or environmental groups, he continues to raise awareness.
Outcome: There was no significant outcome as a result of Makichyan’s single-picket protests. Makichyan is prevented from actively engaging with people around him, and passersby frequently ignore him or aren’t aware of his presence. However, he is frequently given assurances of support, including from Greta Thurnsberg. Russians are also increasingly worried about environmental damage and air pollution, which have already resulted in hospitalizations in cities such as Volokolamsk. Though Makichyan is campaigning under the larger mandate of the Fridays for Future movement, Russian laws prevent him from claiming any affiliation with the advocacy group.