Uncovering Russian Corruption: The Debate over Copyright in the Traitors YouTube Series
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.
Initially, the first two episodes of “Traitors” did not credit the authors of the materials used by FBK, leading 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.
The controversy surrounding the use of copyrighted materials in “Traitors” sheds light on the importance of respecting intellectual property rights, even in
