Today: 23 August 2025
19 April 2024
2 mins read

Western nations condemn treatment of prisoners in Russia

These instances underscore the systematic suppression of independent voices by Russian authorities, prompting urgent calls for the immediate and unconditional release of arbitrarily detained persons…reports Asian Lite News

The UK and 40 other members of the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) have voiced profound alarm over egregious human rights violations unfolding within the Russian Federation.

Invoking the Vienna (Human Dimension) Mechanism, the aligned countries underscored the imperative for the Russian Federation to provide concrete and substantial responses to seven crucial inquiries pertaining to arbitrary detentions, targeting of political dissenters, and reports of torture within Russian detention facilities. Despite the ten-day deadline stipulated by the Vienna Mechanism, the Russian Federation has remained conspicuously silent for 27 days, failing to meet its obligations.

Of significant concern is the plight of individuals like Vladimir Kara-Murza, a prominent human rights activist, politician, journalist, and historian, who languishes in inhumane conditions without access to urgent medical attention. Kara-Murza, who survived two poisoning attempts, currently endures a 25-year prison sentence, emblematic of the grave risks faced by incarcerated members of the opposition.

Furthermore, the coalition highlighted the case of Ilya Yashin, sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison for his advocacy against reported war crimes committed by Russian forces in Ukraine. Oleg Orlov, designated a “foreign agent” for opposing Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, was sentenced to two years and six months for purportedly discrediting the Russian army.

These instances underscore the systematic suppression of independent voices by Russian authorities, prompting urgent calls for the immediate and unconditional release of arbitrarily detained persons. The coalition expressed grave concern over politically motivated prosecutions based on vague charges like “extremism” and “false information,” coupled with reports of torture and ill-treatment in detention facilities.

Citing relevant OSCE commitments, the coalition urged the Russian Federation to provide substantive responses to their inquiries without delay, emphasizing that human rights concerns transcend internal affairs and demand global attention. The coalition affirmed their commitment to pursuing answers through OSCE structures and other multilateral forums, underscoring the imperative for the Russian Federation to uphold its obligations in the realm of human rights.

The OSCE nations comprise of Albania, Andorra, Austria, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom, and the United States.

ALSO READ-China Fuels Russian Defence Industry Expansion

Previous Story

At UN, Iran warns of ‘decisive response’ to Israel

Next Story

Abu Dhabi Launches ‘Medeem’ initiative

Latest from -Top News

US sanctions more ICC judges

Washington hits at The Hague with fresh sanctions on four ICC judges and prosecutors, including French and Canadian officials, over probes targeting Israel and US actions abroad….reports Asian Lite News The United

UAE Wows Osaka!

The UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka celebrates its three millionth visitor, blending culture, innovation, and hospitality in an immersive showcase of heritage, sustainability, and forward-looking global vision….reports Asian Lite News The

MBS & Sisi talk ties, Palestine

The two leaders reviewed the historic and strategic relations between Riyadh and Cairo and explored new ways to bolster cooperation…reports Asian Lite News Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister HRH Mohammed bin

Dubai’s startup supernova

Marking its 10th year, Expand North Star cements Dubai’s role as a global hub for digital innovation, uniting startups, unicorns, and investors to shape the future economy….reports Asian Lite News Expand North

Qatar: Syria’s stability key to region

Qatar, speaking for the Arab Group at the UN, urged unity and sovereignty for Syria as regional diplomacy, UN warnings, and fragile ceasefires highlight a precarious crossroads….reports Asian Lite News Qatar, speaking
Go toTop