Sobesednik: The Last Stand of Russia's Independent Print Newspaper

Once a reputable independent print newspaper in Russia, Sobesednik faced intense pressure from state authorities. Its obituary on opposition leader Alexei Navalny led to its designation as a 'foreign agent,' forcing it to cease publication. Despite the trials, the paper's legacy endures among its dedicated readers.

For years, Moscow's weekly newspaper Sobesednik marked its February anniversary with a celebration. However, its 40th birthday this year was tense, with its staff in a room under the questioning of a colonel from Russia's Centre for Combating Extremism. This came after the paper published an obituary for opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

The front page featured a smiling Navalny with the caption: '... but there is hope!' His depiction risked criminal prosecution, yet no immediate repercussions ensued. However, by mid-September, Sobesednik was labelled a 'foreign agent,' a designation that led to the paper suspending its publication. Editor-in-chief Oleg Roldugin feared advertisers would flee, making the paper financially unsustainable.

From its launch, Sobesednik, free of single-owner influence, maintained an independent stance. Esteemed contributors like Dmitry Bykov highlighted its role in providing an unfiltered voice to readers. The newspaper's closure signals another blow to independent journalism in Russia, especially since state media dominate and censorship is pervasive.