In recent times, the world has witnessed a disconcerting erosion of human rights and civil liberties in the Russian Federation. Over the past year, the United Nations has maintained a vigilant eye on the situation, issuing a series of grave statements that highlight the concerning escalation of repression and violations within the country. From July 2022 to July 2023, various UN human rights experts and bodies have issued statements that underscore the deep concern and condemnation of Russia’s actions against its own citizens.
UN Secretary General’s Report:
In September 2022, the UN Secretary-General released a report focusing on reprisals against cooperation with the UN in the field of human rights. This report brought to light the detrimental effects of Russia’s “foreign agents” and “undesirable organizations” laws, casting a shadow over the capacity of civil society actors to engage with international bodies, including the UN. These laws, intended to target certain groups, have stifled the voices of those advocating for human rights, creating a hostile environment for civil society in Russia.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk:
Throughout the year, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has voiced his growing concerns over the deteriorating human rights situation in Russia.
In August 2023, Türk expressed serious concern regarding the 19-year maximum-security prison sentence imposed on Aleksei Navalny, a prominent opposition figure. He called for Navalny’s immediate release, emphasizing the glaring injustice of his sentence.
In June 2023, the High Commissioner urged Russia to address a myriad of human rights issues, including the closing down of civic space, judicial proceedings targeting activists and critics, and persistent allegations of torture and ill-treatment. These issues collectively paint a bleak portrait of the erosion of fundamental rights in the country.
April 2023 witnessed Türk’s condemnation of the 25-year prison sentence for journalist and opposition activist Vladimir Kara-Murza, further underscoring the oppressive climate that has enveloped Russia.
March 2023 saw Türk expressing deep concern about the closure of important independent voices such as Novaya Gazeta and the Moscow Helsinki Group. Additionally, he raised alarm over the growing number of criminal cases related to war censorship and anti-LGBT+ legislation.
The series of statements by Türk reflect not only his commitment to upholding human rights but also his deep worry about the trajectory Russia is following.
UN Special Procedures Mandate Holders:
The UN Special Procedures mandate holders have also been vocal in their condemnation of Russia’s human rights violations.
In August 2023, four UN Special Rapporteurs called for changes in Russia’s ‘discreditation’ laws, urging the Constitutional Court to guarantee freedom of expression. These laws have stifled dissenting voices and must be reevaluated to ensure basic rights are preserved.
In July 2023, the UN Special Rapporteur on Russia advocated for the immediate release of Vladimir Kara-Murza, citing the deteriorating health of this brave activist, whose life hangs in the balance.
The unjust detention of American journalist Evan Gershkovich, held on espionage charges since March 2023, prompted two UN Special Rapporteurs to call for his immediate release in July 2023. His arrest underscores the severe clampdown on freedom of opinion and expression, especially when it comes to independent journalism in Russia.
Additionally, various Special Procedures mandate holders have highlighted cases of violent attacks against journalists, the raiding of human rights offices, and the unjust criminal charges placed on human rights defenders and activists. These actions underscore the systematic suppression of dissenting voices within the country.
UN Human Rights Treaty Bodies:
The UN Human Rights Treaty Bodies have consistently voiced their concerns regarding Russia’s human rights record.
In April 2023, the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination expressed profound worry about the unclear definition of “extremist activity” within Russia, and called for an end to forced mobilization, as well as the monitoring and combatting of hate speech and racial discrimination.
November 2022 witnessed the UN Human Rights Committee expressing deep concern about Russia’s involvement in the armed conflict in Ukraine, the human rights violations in occupied Ukrainian territories, restrictions on freedom of assembly and association, and limitations on freedom of expression. These issues are a grave cause for concern and require immediate attention.
Conclusion:
The collective voices of the United Nations and its various bodies and experts paint a stark and troubling picture of the state of human rights in Russia. The deteriorating situation, characterized by restrictions on fundamental freedoms, oppressive legislation, and the unjust detention of activists and journalists, cannot be ignored.
The international community must remain vigilant and continue to monitor the situation closely. Advocacy for the immediate release of individuals unjustly detained, such as Aleksei Navalny and Vladimir Kara-Murza, is crucial. Moreover, Russia must be held accountable for its human rights violations.
The UN’s unwavering commitment to upholding human rights underscores the importance of collective action in addressing these concerns. As we move forward, it is imperative that the international community, human rights organizations, and governments worldwide unite to pressure Russia to respect the rights and freedoms of its citizens. The future of human rights in Russia depends on it.