Federal Human Rights Commissioner Markus Löning issued the following statement today (20 June) on the extension of custody for members of the group Pussy Riot:

“I am appalled that the detention of the three artists has been extended yet again. This decision stands in clear opposition to freedom of opinion and artistic freedom, and is utterly disproportionate in light of the impact of what will soon be four months’ imprisonment on the women’s families and children.

I urge the Russian authorities to release the women without delay and to consider closing the case.”

On 21 February 2012 the members of the Russian punk artists’ group Pussy Riot performed a “punk prayer” entitled “Virgin Mary, redeem us of Putin” in a Moscow cathedral.

Three members of the group were arrested and taken into custody a few days later, following indignant reactions from the Russian Orthodox Church and some Russian officials.

Today their detention was extended by another month; they are now to remain in custody until 24 July. Investigations on charges of “severe hooliganism” are underway. According to the Russian criminal code, the women could face up to seven years’ imprisonment.

The authorities have justified their extreme response with the argument that the artists committed an act of “religious hate”.

The German Government is in contact with the group’s lawyers via the embassy in Moscow and will continue monitoring the case closely.