Exile in Weimar: Natalia Baryishnikova about resistance and memory

Exile in Weimar: Natalia Baryishnikova about resistance and memory

Weimar. The challenges of exile: a conversation with the Russian human rights activist Natalia Barysnikova about resistance to Putin regime and the importance of memory work

a new phase of life in Weimar

in the heart of Weimar, in an inviting café near the Ilm Park, meets Natalia Baryysnikova on like-minded people. Since she has been actively working on the renowned human rights organization Memorial in 2015, she has changed her place of residence and has now lived in exile in Germany. Here she found a skull for her memory work, but the way there was paved with rapid decisions, multi -layered emotions and an incessant pressure that she had experienced in Russia over the past few years.

challenges in exile

The departure from Moscow in 2022 when Russia marched to Ukraine was not easy. Rumors about possible border closures made the round, and Baryysnikova decided that staying in her home country was no longer a willable way in view of the government's repressive measures. "The feeling of arrival is complicated," she reflects.

Memories of Russia are not shaped by longing, but by the overwhelming need to fight for human rights.

The importance of memory work

Natalia appreciates the possibilities that the Buchenwald memorial offers her. Against the background of the eventful history, the memorial not only serves to deal with crimes, but also as a place for political resistance. This not only makes your work a duty, but a privilege that you modestly treats. "Memory can be resistance," she says and refers to initiatives that capture the victims of repression in historical memory.

Current challenges for memorial

Although the organization was smashed in Russia, the movement still exists. Over 20 memorial groups continue their important work despite considerable threats by the authorities. The activists document the fate of those who suffered from the repressive regime and organize invisible networks of support.

Courage to hope and solidarity

Baryishnikova makes it clear that it is not just about the survival of the organization. "We also have to give them a voice that fight for freedom and justice in secret." You and others in exile are in constant contact with activists in Russia to create a platform for information and support. "It is important that people know that we are there and don't give up," she adds determined.

a critical eye on the future

The current exhibition in the Schillermuseum, which deals with the Bauhaus and the challenges in totalitarian times, touches it deep. It draws parallels to her own situation and that of Memorial that move in the area of tension between history and the present. Despite her uncertainties, she looks into the future with determination. "I have to find my own way, learn German, research and work. But the planning is often only enough for the next few months," she says with a thoughtful expression.

The way to renewal

- Nag