Viktor Fainberg, Russian philologist, Died at 91

Viktor Isaakovich Fainberg: A Defiant Voice in Soviet Dissent

Viktor Isaakovich Fainberg, known by his Russian name Ви́ктор Исаа́кович Фа́йнберг, was a notable Russian philologist and a key figure in the dissident movement within the Soviet Union. Born on November 26, 1931, he gained acclaim for his unwavering dedication to opposing the oppressive regime of his time. Unfortunately, on January 2, 2023, at the age of 91, Viktor Fainberg passed away, leaving behind a legacy of courage and resistance.

Early Years and Advocacy

Viktor Fainberg was born to Isaac Fainberg and Sarah Dashevskaya during a tumultuous period marked by antisemitic campaigns from 1948 to 1952. Growing up amidst discrimination and harassment, Fainberg refused to accept these injustices and stood up against his oppressors, often defying them. This boldness even led to him being referred to a psychiatrist at one point.

In 1957, a confrontation with a policeman, triggered by antisemitic insults, resulted in Fainberg being sentenced to one year of corrective labor. This incident only fueled his determination to resist injustice, a resolve that remained unshakeable throughout his life.

Academic Pursuits and Dissent

In 1968, Fainberg completed his studies at Leningrad University, specializing in the English unit of the philological department. He presented an exceptional diploma thesis on the writer Salinger, earning distinction for his scholarly work. During that summer, he worked as a guide at Pavlovsk Palace.

Fainberg's significant act of dissent took place in 1968 when he participated in the infamous Red Square demonstration against the Soviet-led military invasion of Czechoslovakia. His bravery led to his arrest and subsequent confinement in a psychiatric hospital. The demonstration left Fainberg injured, including the loss of several teeth, but he was never presented for trial in such a state and was instead institutionalized.

Despite the lack of a fair trial, Fainberg was committed for compulsory treatment at the Special Psychiatric Hospital in Leningrad from January 1969 to February 1973.

Emigration and Advocacy Overseas

In 1974, Fainberg successfully emigrated from the Soviet Union to Israel, escaping the repressive regime and allowing him to continue his activism in new ways. He played a pivotal role in initiating the "Campaign Against Psychiatric Abuse" (CAPA) aimed at combating punitive psychiatry in the USSR. The severity of psychiatric abuses in the Soviet Union gained international recognition, leading to the country's expulsion from the World Psychiatric Association (WPA) in 1983.

Fainberg's relentless efforts, coupled with support from fellow activists, contributed to his eventual release.

Legacy and Accolades

On October 27, 2014, Viktor Fainberg was honored by Slovak President Andrej Kiska, along with other dissenters from the summer of 1968. He was awarded the Medal of the President of the Slovak Republic in recognition of his solidarity with Czechoslovakia. British playwright Tom Stoppard dedicated the play "Every Good Boy Deserves Favour" to both Vladimir Bukovsky and Viktor Fainberg.

Viktor Fainberg's legacy endures, as does his impact on the fight for human rights and freedom. He leaves behind a daughter, Sarah, who continues his spirit of activism as a research fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies in Tel Aviv.

Although Viktor Fainberg is no longer with us, his brave stand against oppression continues to inspire individuals worldwide, serving as a reminder of the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of adversity.