The feminist punk collective has released a new song and video. Padraig Reidy reports
Pussy Riot versus Darth Vader
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CATEGORY: Europe and Central Asia
Angela Merkel calls for tougher EU privacy laws
German chancellor Angela Merkel has called for more stringent EU data protection rules, after allegations that US surveillance programmes have also impacted EU citizens. Sara Yasin reports
Stand in solidarity with Turkey’s peaceful protesters
Seven people have now died since the start of anti-government demonstrations in Turkey. Free speech organisations are calling on seven people to stand silently in front of Turkish embassies around the world for seven minutes in protest
Religious youth group creates ‘Kill Pussy Riot’ game
A Russian Orthodox has launched a video game in which players attack members of punk feminist group Pussy Riot with a crucifix
Fine words on open government don’t match actions
From America to Azerbaijan, leaders have pledged themselves to a new era of openness and transparency. So why are whistleblowers and journalists still punished, asks Mike Harris
IPSO proposal an opportunity to break Leveson deadlock
The industry’s proposal for a new press regulator is not perfect. But it’s a starting point for proper discussion on the future of Britain’s free press, says Padraig Reidy
Journalist Akhmednabi Akhmednabiev killed in Russia
Akhmednabi Akhmednabiev, a well-known Russian journalist who reported on human rights violations in the Caucasus, was shot dead near his house around 7am local time today. Andrei Aliaksandrau reports
In war on free expression, Putin approves restrictive legislation
Russia keeps adopting repressive laws that further restrict freedom of expression and other fundamental rights of its citizens, Andrei Aliaksandrau writes
Guest Post: International solidarity with Russian civil society is crucial
Global action is needed to counter Putin’s crackdown on civil society, says Yuri Dzhibladze, president of the Center for the Development of Democracy and Human Rights
Related: In war on free expression, Putin approves restrictive legislation
European parliament orders NSA inquiry
The European Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee is to hold an inquiry into claims that the United States has been engaged in surveillance of European citizens and diplomats. The inquiry is to report by the end of 2013.