The UN human rights office has expressed shock and dismay at the death of Russian activist Alexei Navalny while in prison.
According to media reports, Mr. Navalny, 47, was unable to be revived after losing consciousness.
The OHCHR spokesperson, Liz Throssell, stated that if a person dies while in the custody of the State, it is presumed that the State is responsible. This responsibility can only be challenged by an unbiased, comprehensive, and transparent investigation conducted by an independent organization. The OHCHR is urging Russia to guarantee that such a trustworthy investigation takes place.
Calls for protection
The United Nations rights office stated that every State has a greater responsibility to safeguard the lives of people who are being deprived of their freedom.
Ms. Throssell also urged Russia to cease its mistreatment of opposition politicians, human rights activists, and journalists, among others.
“All those who are held or have been sentenced to various prison terms in relation to the legitimate exercise of their rights, including the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression, should be immediately released and all charges against them dropped,” Ms. Throssell said.
According to international law, the Russian government has a responsibility to safeguard the lives of individuals who are detained. It is crucial that a thorough and impartial investigation, including a complete autopsy, is conducted promptly.
Navalny faced multiple charges
In 2021, Mr. Navalny was arrested and faced multiple sentences, including new accusations of extremism that were declared in August.
Ms. Throssell stated that OHCHR has consistently expressed grave reservations regarding the accusations against Navalny and his repeated arrests, which seemed to lack justification.
In August of last year, a spokesperson stated that UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed concerns about the 19-year sentence given in Russia, suggesting it may be a form of political manipulation and urging for the release of Mr. Navalny.
Disappeared in December
In December, Mariana Katzarova, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Russia, raised concerns about the enforced disappearance of Mr. Navalny. His location and safety were unknown for over 10 days.
Mr. Navalny was moved to the prison in late December, where it is said he passed away.
A protest in London, UK showing support for Alexsei Navalny. (file)
The day was dismal for upholding the law.
The UN’s Special Rapporteur on Torture, Alice Edwards, stated that she and other independent experts of the UN have both privately and publicly called on the Russian Government to put an end to the harsh conditions under which Mr. Navalny was being detained.
According to her, an inquiry was requested to look into believable accusations of torture against Mr. Navalny. She also emphasized the crucial importance of him receiving medical care, particularly after his alleged poisoning in 2020, to the authorities.
“The fact that the Kremlin blatantly disregarded our pleas and showed no concern for human life is a tragic event for Mr. Navalny, his loved ones, and his followers,” she stated. “It is a dark day for justice, freedom of speech, and basic human rights.”
Long-time critic
Since the early 2000s, he has actively spoken out against corruption and criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin. He has organized protests and gained support for his cause.
In 2020, Mr. Navalny was admitted to the hospital due to injuries caused by being poisoned with Novichok, a nerve agent created by Russia during the Cold War.
On Thursday, it was reported by the media that Mr. Navalny had made a video appearance in court. News sources also mentioned that his spokesperson was seeking verification and more information about his passing.
into disappearance of UN
The United Nations leader urges for a thorough investigation into the vanishing of the United Nations.
At the Noon Briefing in New York, UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric stated that the UN Secretary-General is taken aback by the reported death.
Mr. Dujarric stated that the Secretary-General is urging for a thorough investigation that is trustworthy and open to the public, regarding the reported death of Mr. Navalny while in custody.
Special Rapporteurs
The UN Human Rights Council selects Special Rapporteurs and other experts to oversee and document particular themes or situations in countries. These individuals are not employed by the UN and do not receive payment for their duties.
Source: news.un.org
