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.
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 peaceful "guard" near the Bronze Soldier, a war memorial honouring Soviet war dead, and that he sent 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] after it emerged he had not even been involved in the protests, as he was at home studying for his school exams.[6]
Sirők suffers from hemophilia and allergies.[7] The Estonian authorities refused to bring forward his trial for health reasons.[8] His supporters were concerned that his arrest could have implications for his health.
His arrest was condemned by the International Federation of Human Rights[9]
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.[10]
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.
- ^ FIDH
- ^ Website of those opposed to the movement of the Bronze Soldier
- ^ Website of those opposed to the movement of the Bronze Soldier
- ^ FIDH
- ^ ekspress.ee