Statement on the verdict against pussy riot

The Civic Solidarity Platform, of which the NHC is a member, has issued a statement on the verdict against the Russian music band Pussy Riot. On Friday 17 August 2012, three members of the band were sentenced to two years in prison after being convicted of hooliganism motivated by religious hatred under the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. The charges relate to a protest which the group staged in Moscow’s main Russian Orthodox cathedral on 21 February 2012 during which they performed their song Virgin Mary, Drive Putin Away. The verdict violates the right to freedom of expression and is believed to be politically motivated.

For more information about the statement: see website Civic Solidarity Platform