Russian lawmakers expand powers of security service
The FSB, successor to the KGB, will now be able to issue warnings to those who have broken no laws but are viewed as potential criminals. Critics warn of a return to Soviet-era repressions.
Police block off Pushkin Square in Moscow to prevent a demonstration. (Sergei L. Loiko / For The Times / March 20, 2010)
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By Megan K. Stack, Los Angeles Times
July 16, 2010 | 2:45 p.m.
Reporting from Moscow — Russia's most feared counterintelligence service took on even wider powers under a law approved Friday in parliament, and critics warned that the country was sliding back toward Soviet-era repressions.
The FSB, a modern-day successor to the Soviet KGB, will now have the authority to issue warnings to people who have broken no laws but are viewed as potential criminals.
Rights monitors have criticized the law as a throwback to the times when Russians lived in fear of state persecution for appearing ideologically objectionable. Many warn that the measure will be used to further silence dissent against the government.
The FSB, successor to the KGB, will now be able to issue warnings to those who have broken no laws but are viewed as potential criminals. Critics warn of a return to Soviet-era repressions.
Police block off Pushkin Square in Moscow to prevent a demonstration. (Sergei L. Loiko / For The Times / March 20, 2010)
Want to share this story or discuss it with your friends? Become a fan of the LA Times World on Facebook!
By Megan K. Stack, Los Angeles Times
July 16, 2010 | 2:45 p.m.
Reporting from Moscow — Russia's most feared counterintelligence service took on even wider powers under a law approved Friday in parliament, and critics warned that the country was sliding back toward Soviet-era repressions.
The FSB, a modern-day successor to the Soviet KGB, will now have the authority to issue warnings to people who have broken no laws but are viewed as potential criminals.
Rights monitors have criticized the law as a throwback to the times when Russians lived in fear of state persecution for appearing ideologically objectionable. Many warn that the measure will be used to further silence dissent against the government.