How to Boycott Russia Economically: A Guide for Savvy Consumers

Russia is a country that has been involved in many human rights violations, political interference, cyberattacks, and military aggression in recent years. Some of the most notable examples are:

• The annexation of Crimea and the ongoing war in eastern Ukraine
• The poisoning and imprisonment of opposition leader Alexei Navalny and the crackdown on his supporters
• The interference in the 2016 and 2020 US presidential elections and the hacking of US government agencies
• The support for the Assad regime in Syria and the bombing of civilians
• The use of chemical weapons against former spies and dissidents in the UK and Germany

These actions have provoked international condemnation and sanctions from many countries, but they have not deterred Russia from continuing its aggressive and authoritarian behavior. Therefore, some people have called for a boycott of Russia economically, as a way to put more pressure on the Kremlin and show solidarity with the victims of its oppression.

But what does it mean to boycott Russia economically, and how can you do it? Here are some possible ways:

Avoid buying Russian products

One of the simplest ways to boycott Russia economically is to avoid buying products that are made in Russia or that benefit Russian companies. Some of the most common Russian products are:

• Oil and gas: Russia is one of the largest exporters of oil and gas in the world, and it uses its energy resources as a political tool to influence other countries. You can reduce your dependence on Russian oil and gas by switching to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, or hydro power, or by using electric vehicles or public transportation.
• Weapons: Russia is also one of the largest exporters of weapons in the world, and it sells arms to many countries that are involved in conflicts or human rights abuses. You can avoid supporting the Russian arms industry by not buying weapons or by supporting campaigns that call for an arms embargo on Russia.
• Vodka: Vodka is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages in the world, and it is often associated with Russia. However, many vodka brands are actually owned by Russian oligarchs or companies that have ties to the Kremlin. You can avoid drinking Russian vodka by choosing other brands or other types of alcohol.
• Caviar: Caviar is another luxury product that is often associated with Russia. However, most of the caviar that is sold in the market comes from endangered sturgeon species that are illegally fished from the Caspian Sea or other regions. You can avoid eating Russian caviar by choosing other types of fish eggs or other delicacies.

Divest from Russian assets

Another way to boycott Russia economically is to divest from Russian assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds that invest in Russian companies or markets. This way, you can reduce the flow of capital to Russia and lower its economic growth and stability. Some of the ways to divest from Russian assets are:

• Check your portfolio: If you have any investments in Russian assets, you can sell them or exchange them for other assets that are more ethical and sustainable. You can also check if your pension fund, bank, or insurance company has any exposure to Russian assets, and ask them to divest from them or switch to another provider.
• Join a campaign: There are many campaigns that advocate for divestment from Russian assets, such as Stop Funding Hate or Divest Russia. You can join these campaigns by signing petitions, contacting your representatives, or participating in protests or events.
• Support alternatives: You can also support alternatives to Russian assets, such as investing in emerging markets that are more democratic and respectful of human rights, such as India, South Africa, or Brazil. You can also support local businesses and entrepreneurs that offer innovative and sustainable solutions.

Spread awareness and solidarity

A third way to boycott Russia economically is to spread awareness and solidarity about the situation in Russia and the impact of its actions on other countries and people. This way, you can educate yourself and others about the reality of Russia’s regime and its victims, and inspire more people to join the boycott movement. Some of the ways to spread awareness and solidarity are:

• Learn more: You can learn more about Russia’s history, culture, politics, and society by reading books, articles, podcasts, documentaries, or movies that offer different perspectives and insights. You can also follow reliable sources of information and analysis, such as Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Meduza, or Bellingcat.
• Speak up: You can speak up about Russia’s issues and actions by writing blogs, posts, tweets, comments, letters, or articles that express your opinion and inform others. You can also join online forums, groups, or communities that discuss Russia-related topics and share your views and experiences.
• Support activists: You can support activists who are working to expose and challenge Russia’s regime and its abuses, such as journalists, lawyers, human rights defenders, or civil society organizations. You can support them by donating money, time, or skills, by signing petitions, by joining campaigns, or by sending messages of encouragement and solidarity.

By boycotting Russia economically, you can make a difference and contribute to a more peaceful and just world. You can also benefit yourself by saving money, reducing your environmental impact, and expanding your knowledge and network. So, what are you waiting for? Join the boycott movement today!