Holidays in hell: summer camp with Russia’s forgotten children
Mar 31, 2025•25 min
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Summary
Howard Amos reflects on his experiences volunteering at a Russian orphanage for children with disabilities, revealing the harsh realities of institutional life, including violence, medication abuse, and emotional deprivation. He explores the complex relationships between staff, volunteers, and children, and examines the orphanage's role within the local economy and the broader Russian system. The story highlights both the initial despair and the gradual improvements, while questioning whether the fundamental essence of the institution has truly changed.Episode description
At the rural orphanage where I volunteered, the place resembled a Dickensian workhouse. The staff’s main tools were antipsychotics and violence. The experience gave me a window into Putin’s Russia By Howard Amos. Read by Harry Lloyd. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod
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