Manizha, Russia’s 2021 Eurovision representative, returned to Moscow, sparking controversy: calls for prosecution, political accusations, and questions about freedom of speech in Russia.

The singer Manizha Sangin, who represented Russia in the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Russian Woman,” has found herself at the center of a new political storm. After reports emerged that she had returned to Russia and was set to perform in Moscow, there were calls within Russia to prosecute her and declare her a “foreign agent.” The criticism stems from her previous political stances, including her opposition to the invasion of Ukraine and her alleged positions regarding the attack at Crocus City Hall.

“Manizha should be recognized as a foreign agent”

“The singer Manizha Sangin should be recognized as a foreign agent, and criminal proceedings should be initiated against her,” said Vitaly Borodin, head of the “Federal Project for Security and Anti-Corruption” in the city of Mytishchi, Moscow region, in an interview with NEWS.ru.

Manizha’s Return and the Debate on Freedom of Expression

The debate surrounding Manizha raises broader questions about freedom of expression in Russia and the place of artists who express views contrary to the state. Her sudden return, two years after leaving Russia, is seen by conservative circles as an attempt to re-enter the mainstream, while her supporters view her as a symbol of courageous resistance to oppression. Her historic role as an artist representing marginalized populations, especially women and immigrants, only amplifies the criticism from conservative groups.

Manizha, born in Tajikistan and holding Russian citizenship, gained international recognition after performing at Eurovision with “Russian Woman”—a song that addressed feminist themes and challenged Russia’s official narrative. Since then, she has become a controversial figure in her homeland. In 2022, she left Russia following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine and disappeared from the public eye—until her recent, surprising return.

Russian Culture and Criticism: Why Now?

In many ways, Manizha has become a litmus test for deeper trends within Russian society. While across Europe she is seen as an important voice for liberalism, progressivism, and social activism, in Russia her voice is regarded as a threat by an increasingly hardline establishment. Her open criticism of the authorities, especially during a time of political and social sensitivity, is seen almost as provocation.

The current demand to investigate her sources of funding and claims that she promotes “terrorist ideology” illustrate the deep divide between global popular culture and Russia’s local culture. Similar phenomena have been observed among other artists in totalitarian states, where identification with Western values is perceived as a threat to regime stability.

What Really Happened at the Crocus Concert?

The criticism of Manizha intensified after the attack at Crocus City Hall, where four gunmen opened fire, killing at least 144 people and injuring hundreds. The singer did not publicly express sorrow for the victims of the attack, instead speaking about issues related to migrants and tensions between ethnic groups. Manizha did not explicitly state support for the attack or the perpetrators, but because she did not convey clear mourning and chose to speak about discrimination and racism, some in the Russian public interpreted this as siding with the attackers or ignoring the victims. Her supporters argued that the judgment against her was unfair and that she spoke out of pain about another issue close to her heart—but simply chose the wrong time to do so.

Manizha at Eurovision: Harsh Criticism from Russia

Her appearance at Eurovision 2021 marked Manizha’s public peak—and also the beginning of her estrangement from Russian authorities. The song she chose, her bold stage presence, and her traditional attire with a modern twist made her an instant icon. However, while she was praised in Europe for her progressive stances, within Russia she faced harsh criticism. Like other representatives who displayed independent attitudes, Manizha paid a personal price—ending collaborations, canceled performances, and ultimately leaving the country.

Contradictory Responses: Political Persecution or Provocative Move?

Some in the Russian public view Manizha’s return as an unnecessary attempt to provoke. Others claim it is an expression of longing for home and a sincere attempt to reconnect with the local audience. In conversations with Eurovision fans on EuroMix communities, it is clear that her Eurovision performance was considered exceptionally brave, as were her appearances around the world, her marriage to a man of Ukrainian descent, and her outspoken views against the regime.

Russia at Eurovision

“Russian Woman” is the name of the song performed by Manizha in the second semi-final of Eurovision 2021. Russia reached ninth place in the Grand Final with 204 points. Russia has competed in the Eurovision Song Contest 24 times since joining the competition in 1994. To date, Russia has won only once, in 2008, with the song “Believe” performed by singer Dima Bilan. Russia has reached second place four times and third place four times. So far, Russia has failed only once to qualify for the competition’s final. In 2022, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) decided to suspend Russia’s membership until further notice due to its invasion of Ukraine.

Eurovision 2021: This was Russia’s 24th participation in Eurovision. Russia joined the competition in 1994 and won it once, in Eurovision 2008 with the song “Believe” performed by singer Dima Bilan.