Mark Sirők (sometimes transliterated from Russian as Mark Siryk, or alternatively spelt Mark Sirök or Mark Sirõk) is an anti-racism campaigner, human rights activist and member of the pro-Putin youth movement Nashi, designated as its "commissar" for Estonia.
Sirők was arrested and later charged with inciting the Bronze Night riots in Tallinn that left 150 people injured in April 2007.[1][2] The Estonian Security Police alleged he was organising the "guard" near the Bronze Soldier by sending SMS's offering a pay of 80 Estonian kroons per hour.[3] The source of the money was alleged by the Estonian press to be from Russia.[4] However, he was found not guilty.[5]
Sirők suffers from hemophilia.[6] His supporters were concerned that his arrest could have implications for his health.
His arrest was condemned by the International Federation of Human Rights[7]
Political views
Although supportive of Vladimir Putin, Sirők has said he supports the constitution of Estonia and is not anti-Estonian, only anti-racist and anti-fascist, and has called for the protection of Estonian speakers' rights as well as Russian speakers.[8]
References
- ^ USA Today
- ^ Channel 4
- ^ Kuimet, Peeter (2007-04-26). "Vene noori palgatakse Tõnismäele valvama". Postimees (in Estonian). ExpressMeedia. Retrieved 2009-06-04.
- ^ Berendson, Risto (2007-10-19). "Aprillirahutusi suunas raha ja nõuga Venemaa". Postimees (in Estonian). EkspressMeedia. Retrieved 2009-06-04.
- ^ "Оправдание активистов "Ночного дозора" подтверждает надуманность предъявленных им обвинений: МИД РФ". IA Regnum Information Agency. 14 May 2009. Retrieved 9 June 2009.
- ^ Website of those opposed to the movement of the Bronze Soldier
- ^ FIDH
- ^ ekspress.ee