In light of a new report by Amnesty International, it appears that fleeing persecution in the North Caucasus region of Russia has become increasingly perilous due to the ongoing military conflict in Ukraine and escalating stigmatization in Europe. The human rights organization asserts that European governments must cease the transfer of at-risk individuals back to Russia in order to protect their human rights.
The report, released on Thursday, emphasizes the sad truth that despite worsening human rights conditions in Russia, particularly in the North Caucasus, European governments continue to deport individuals, including Chechens, back to their home country. In the North Caucasus, these deported individuals face torture and other horrendous acts from Russian authorities. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia and the following threat of mobilization has amped up the risk of severe human rights violations after return, whilst geopolitical confrontations and discrimination in Europe further exacerbate the vulnerability of North Caucasus individuals.
Although European states claim to have suspended cooperation with Russia, they still pose a threat to, or execute, transfers of individuals which stand in violation of the principle of non-refoulement. Amnesty International urges these states to stop extraditions to Russia and adopt fair asylum procedures, protecting conscientious objectors and preventing dependency on diplomatic assurances.
In addition to these calls for action, Amnesty International has urged for the discontinuation of accepting Interpol’s red notices from Russia, adoption of lawful detention practices for those requiring protection, and transparent risk assessments for legal challenges. At the same time, they ask Interpol to suspend Russia’s system access, look into red notice abuses, and cancel extradition requests concerning those under international protection or waiting for decisions.
The North Caucasus is a region known for its ethnic and cultural diversity, encompassing republics like Chechnya, Dagestan, Ingushetia, Kabardino-Balkaria, Karachay-Cherkessia, North Ossetia-Alania, and others, situated in southern Russia, nestled between the Black and Caspian seas. However, the area has a volatile history, marked by ethnic tensions and conflicts—especially in Chechnya. Concerns about human rights in the North Caucasus encompass issues like arbitrary detentions, torture, restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, as well as discriminations and violence against minority groups, particularly those of religious and ethnic diversity. Furthermore, the local counterterrorism measures are frequently criticized for rights violations. Adding to the human rights woes are the lack of accountability for abuses inflicted and challenges imposed on the freedom of religion.