Select language:

Compatriots call on UN to protect Russian-speaking activists in Latvia from persecution

 / Главная / Russkiy Mir Foundation / News / Compatriots call on UN to protect Russian-speaking activists in Latvia from persecution

Compatriots call on UN to protect Russian-speaking activists in Latvia from persecution


20.03.2020

Photo credit: LETA

The World Coordinating Council of Russian Compatriots Living Abroad called on international organizations to pay attention to the judicial and police prosecution of fighters for the rights of the Russian-speaking minority Alexander Gaponenko and Yuri Alekseev in Latvia. The statement, which addresses the UN, OSCE and the European Union human rights experts, is published on the website of the council.

The authors called the persecution of the activists "targeted and baseless," as well as "outright bullying." It is indicated that Gaponenko and Alekseev were detained and arrested, they are forbidden to leave the country, they face psychological abuse. Authorities banned Yuri Alekseev from practising journalism and editorial activity.

The statement notes that activists are being persecuted for their political position, articles, letters in defense of the Russian-speaking population of Latvia to international organizations, and public appearances criticizing the glorification of fascism. At the moment, according to the statement, another investigation is being conducted in regards of Gaponenko and Alekseev.

The council called on these international organizations to study the situation and influence the Latvian authorities with the aim of ending violations of human rights and freedoms in the country.

Russkiy Mir

News by subject

Publications

Italian entrepreneur Marco Maggi's book, "Russian to the Bone," is now accessible for purchase in Italy and is scheduled for release in Russia in the upcoming months. In the book, Marco recounts his personal odyssey, narrating each stage of his life as a foreigner in Russia—starting from the initial fascination to the process of cultural assimilation, venturing into business, fostering authentic friendships, and ultimately, reaching a deep sense of identifying as a Russian at his very core.