Human rights violations in Russia discussed at the United Nations during a meeting with Special Rapporteur Mariana Katzarova

As part of the events of the 25th session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, a closed roundtable was held on April 25 at the UN Headquarters in New York with the participation of Mariana Katzarova, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Russia.

The meeting was organized by Russian America for Democracy in Russia in cooperation with the International Indigenous Peoples Development and Solidarity Foundation “Batani.”

Representatives of Russian civil society based in the United States took part in the discussion.

Speakers included representatives of academic, human rights, journalistic, and civil society organizations.

Participants presented reports to Mariana Katzarova on systemic human rights violations in Russia, including the persecution of activists, pressure on civil society, and restrictions on freedom of expression.

Delegates also raised the issue of deportation of Russian opposition and anti-war refugees, highlighting the risks and threats they may face if returned to the country.

Particular attention was given to the situation of Indigenous peoples. In particular, participants discussed the issue of access to clean drinking water in Kalmykia, where, according to those present, less than 10% of the population has access to safe water—significantly affecting quality of life and traditional livestock practices.

The discussion also addressed Russia’s war against Ukraine and its impact on Indigenous peoples. It was noted that members of these communities are disproportionately recruited for military service, and that cases of pressure on employees at Russian enterprises to sign military contracts have been reported.

Mariana Katzarova drew particular attention to the arrests of Indigenous human rights defenders Daria Egereva and Natalya Leongardt, describing the situation as one of the most pressing concerns at present.

Photo: RADR, B. Sanzhiev

IR