About this Video

• Video Title: ИНОЙ АГЕНТ: ПЛАТА ЗА ЧЕСТЬ И РОДИНУ #веллер 03 06 2025
• Channel: Михаил Веллер
• Speakers: Михаил Веллер
• Duration: 01:07:12

Introduction

This video lecture by Mikhail Weller discusses the historical context of "foreign agents" in Russia, tracing it back to the 15th century. Weller connects the concept to periods of social and political upheaval, emigration, and the suppression of dissent, analyzing the phenomenon through the lens of Russian history and culture.

Key Takeaways

• The concept of "foreign agent" in Russia has deep historical roots: Weller traces it back centuries, highlighting figures like Prince Kurbsky who fled Ivan the Terrible's reign.
• Emigration waves coincided with periods of repression: Significant intellectual and artistic emigration occurred after the Russian Revolution and continued through the Soviet era and beyond, often due to political persecution and limitations on freedom of expression.
• Discrimination weakens a nation: Weller argues that discrimination based on ethnicity or social class diminishes a country's overall productivity and potential.
• The post-Soviet era saw substantial emigration of Russians: The collapse of the USSR resulted in a significant loss of population, with millions of Russians leaving for other countries.
• The current "foreign agent" designation is broadly applied and restrictive: Weller explains the evolution of the law, noting its expansion to encompass a wide range of individuals and organizations expressing views critical of the government.