Reacting to the Release of Imprisoned Activists in Russia
Why is this release significant?
- 16 individuals, including human rights defenders, activists, and journalists, have been released from Russian prisons.
- Amnesty International’s Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, Marie Struthers, expresses relief and joy at their release.
What is the message from Amnesty International?
Marie Struthers emphasizes the importance of dismantling Russia’s system of political repression and freeing all individuals detained on political grounds. This release should not be an isolated episode.
Background of the Release
What happened in the swap deal?
- A swap deal between Russia and Belarus with Germany, Norway, Poland, Slovenia, and the US resulted in the release of 16 prisoners.
- The released individuals, including activists and journalists, were imprisoned under politically motivated charges.
This release should mark the beginning of a turn towards human rights in Russia. It is a step towards justice for those who should never have been behind bars.
Source: www.amnesty.org