In April-May 2024, the Alexey Navalny YouTube channel aired the series “Traitors,” created by Maria Pevchikh, the head of the investigation department of the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK). The series delves into topics such as the 1996 elections, the rise of oligarchs, and Vladimir Putin’s assumption of power in Russia. The use of footage from various documentaries by directors like Vitaly Mansky and Vera Krichevskaya contributed to the series’ success, attracting millions of viewers.
However, initially, the first two episodes of “Traitors” did not credit the authors of the materials used by FBK. This led to criticism from viewers and commentators. Only after public outcry did the third episode include proper credits.
Vera Krichevskaya, a TV director and producer whose documentaries were featured in the series, expressed her disappointment with FBK’s handling of copyright issues and the lack of respect for creators’ rights. Tanya Genteleva, the widow of filmmaker Alexander Gentelev, whose footage was prominently featured in “Traitors,” also shared her concerns about the unauthorized use of her late husband’s materials.
Despite attempts to reach out to FBK and discuss the situation, Genteleva and her sons felt that their rights as copyright holders were violated without proper acknowledgment or permission. The controversy surrounding the use of copyrighted materials in “Traitors” sheds light on the importance of respecting intellectual property rights, even in political activism. While FBK advocates against corruption and theft, their approach to using others’ work without consent has been criticized by creators like Vera Krichevskaya and Tanya Genteleva.
The reactions from these individuals highlight not only an ethical dilemma but also a legal one. Intellectual property laws are in place to protect creators’ rights to their work. Without obtaining proper permissions or acknowledgments for using others’ materials in their productions, FBK risked infringement on these rights.
In conclusion, while political activism is essential for holding those accountable for corruption and theft, it must be done responsibly. Respecting intellectual property rights is crucial to ensuring that creators are fairly compensated for their work while still allowing for free expression through media.
