ADC Memorial: How “Foreign Agent” Laws Undermine Independent Indigenous Advocacy
ADC Memorial has highlighted how Russia’s “foreign agent” legislation and subsequent repression have weakened independent Indigenous advocacy. Its article, published on 23 October, presents remarks by Olga Abramenko at an FIDH discussion during the OSCE Warsaw Human Dimension Conference.
From Lost Support to Criminal Prosecution
Abramenko describes a progression: restrictions first affected environmental organisations and international funders, reducing communities’ access to expertise and resources. Later, Indigenous organisations themselves faced designations and prosecution.
She also warns that state and business influence can displace independent representatives, narrowing the range of Indigenous voices heard internationally.
Daria and Natalia Named in the Appeal
The statement recalls the December 2025 searches targeting at least 17 Indigenous activists and names Daria Egereva and Natalia Leongardt, who remain in pre-trial detention. It links to the campaign website and the international call for their release.
Abramenko’s argument places the cases within a broader pattern: peaceful advocacy can become punishable through an alleged association with a designated movement.
Keep Independent Voices in View
For our campaign, the practical question is how international attention can support the people whose participation is being lost. Naming both women, sharing documented information, and sending messages of solidarity are ways to keep their cases visible beyond a single conference or news cycle.
Visit our guide to supporting Daria and Natalia for the petition, letter forms, and ways to involve others.
Source: ADC Memorial — “Foreign Agents Laws and Its Impact on Indigenous Peoples and Ethnic Minorities,” 23 October 2026.
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