On 17 December 2025, Russian security forces temporarily detained 17 Indigenous activists, raided their houses, and confiscated their devices. Two activists were arrested, including the Selkup Indigenous rights defender Daria Egereva, a co-chair of the International Indigenous Peoples’ Forum on Climate Change (IIPFCC). Authorities accused her of participating in a “terrorist organization,” a charge that can carry a prison sentence of up to 20 years.

“International law is not a menu. You cannot recognize cultural rights while ignoring land rights. You cannot speak about participation while excluding Indigenous Peoples from decision-making,” said Valentina Sovkina.

On December 17, Daria Egereva, a Selkup activist fighting for the rights of Siberia's indigenous peoples, was arrested in Russia. This is the moment when the repressive policies of the Putin regime became personal for me, Aimar Ventsel writes.

The goal of the campaign is to show that Indigenous voices stand together — across distances and borders. Sometimes it takes only a few seconds to show support — just to say: Free Daria!

The Canadian television channel APTN News, which broadcasts news for Indigenous peoples in Canada, covered the searches, interrogations of activists from the Indigenous small-numbered peoples of Russia, and the arrest of Daria Egereva.

Observers say Daria Egereva’s case highlights the risks Native advocates face when they challenge the powerful. Anita Hofschneider Daria Egereva speaks at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November 2024 Courtesy of Teo Ormond-Skeaping/Loss and Damage Collaboration This story was originally published by   Grist   and is reproduced here as part of the  Climate Desk   collaboration. Russian authorities have detained an Indigenous climate advocate, accusing her of participating in a

9.2.2026 Question for written answer  E-000529/2026to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security PolicyRule 144Merja Kyllönen (The Left) The Sámi Parliament in Finland has brought to the attention of the European institutions the seriously worrying situation in Russia, where several representatives and leaders of indigenous peoples have been arrested and prosecuted under counter-terrorism measures. One of the detai

The U.N. and dozens of Indigenous organizations are demanding Daria Egereva's release, but a Moscow court just extended her detention until at least March. A Russian court is continuing to hold an international advocate for Indigenous peoples on terrorism charges despite international calls to release her immediately.  Daria Egereva, who is Indigenous Selkup from Russia, is co-chair of the International Indigenous Peoples Forum on Climate Change , which represents Indigenous

I appeal to states, UN bodies, special procedures, international human rights mechanisms, Indigenous networks, and civil society organizations. Today, a clear, principled, and public response is urgently required. The international community must demand the immediate release of Darya Egereva, the release of other detained activists, and an immediate end to all forms of repression, criminal prosecution, and pressure against Indigenous Peoples in Russia.

The Sámi Parliament expresses deep concern that Daria Egereva has remained in detention since December 17, 2025. Sámi representatives emphasize that her work has been peaceful and legitimate, aimed at strengthening Indigenous peoples’ participation in international climate and human rights processes, including within the UN system.