EXPLAINING THE STRUGGLE FOR HUMAN RIGHTS IN RUSSIA |
Trigger warning:
This is a newsletter about Russian repressions. Sometimes it will be hard to read. |
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Hello and welcome back to the Digest! |
In Russia, the digital landscape is changing rapidly, and not for the better. The authorities are tightening their grip on information, systematically blocking messengers like WhatsApp and Telegram, and throttling internet access across various regions. For human rights organizations like OVD-Info, this isn't just an inconvenience; it's a critical threat to our ability to provide urgent help to those facing political persecution. When communication channels are cut off, people in need can't reach us, and our vital work becomes exponentially harder. |
For 14 years, OVD-Info has been at the forefront of defending human rights in Russia, accumulating invaluable expertise and building a vast network of connections. We've learned to adapt, to find new ways to connect with people, and to offer support. But the current challenges demand a new level of innovation. We believe it's time to act decisively, before these digital barriers become insurmountable. |
That's why we're inviting you to re:connect – OVD-Info's first hackathon in Berlin, which will take place from June 19 to 21, 2026. This isn't just a tech event; it's a crucial effort to build new tools and solutions that will help people stay in touch with OVD-Info and other civic projects, ensuring no one is left alone against a repressive system. |
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We need bright minds and skilled hands to tackle these complex technical problems. If you are: an engineer with a grasp of networking protocols, distributed systems, or digital security; a developer who can ship prototype solutions fast; a censorship circumvention expert, a security or cryptography specialist; a data engineer focused on privacy; a product person who turns technology into useful tools; or a technical visionary with fresh ideas –
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We've identified three key tracks where your skills can make a real difference: |
01 INFRA & CHANNELS — Building a universal, fault-tolerant gateway for rapid integration of messaging platforms into a unified helpdesk system. Expected outcomes: ready-to-use connectors or architectural solutions that ensure reliable message delivery. |
02 DATA & AI — Implementing artificial intelligence for secure automated triage, tagging, and analysis of incoming hotline messages. Expected outcomes: a protocol, script, or AI-powered tool for operators that helps quickly identify emerging repression trends. |
03 HACK & MEDIA — Developing technical solutions or media campaigns aimed at fighting censorship, bypassing blocking measures, or countering state-controlled platforms. Expected outcomes: a functional IT product or a creative project at the intersection of technology and media. |
Your participation will have a real impact, directly helping people facing political pressure in Russia. You'll gain access to live data, work with mentors and experts in censorship circumvention, and network with kindred spirits who share your commitment to freedom and human rights. |
Join us in Berlin and help us build the future of digital resistance! Together, we can ensure that even in the face of escalating repression, the lines of communication remain open. |
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The Digest is created by OVD-Info, copy edited by Dr Lauren McCarthy |
OVD-Info English newsletter privacy policy: how we work with your data |
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