Russia's Supreme Court Says Criticism of Politicians Does Not Constitute Hate Speech

Russia's Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that criticism of politicians, public figures and organizations does not qualify as a criminal offense under the country's anti-extremism laws.

Under those laws, individuals convicted of "inciting hatred, enmity or breaching human dignity" against ethnic, racial, religious or social groups can face up to five years in prison.

Russian activists and some lawmakers have long criticized the laws, arguing that ordinary social media users can be swept up for simply posting insensitive content, including memes.