Statement from the Saami Council on Russia's Recent Classification of Human Rights Organisations as Extremist
Photo: The Saami Council / Kristoffer Hætta
The Russian Ministry of Justice has labeled 55 organisations, including those advocating for the rights of Indigenous Peoples, as extremist organisations. This designation subjects these organisations to intense scrutiny, restrictive regulations, and stigmatisation, effectively criminalising their activities and severely hindering their ability to operate.
We believe these actions are targeting human rights defenders, reflecting an ongoing trend to suppress civil society and silence those defending human and Indigenous Peoples' rights within Russia. The Saami Council is deeply concerned by this escalation and the ongoing attempts to criminalise the protection of Indigenous Peoples' rights and territories.
“A functioning and independent civil society is essential for upholding the rule of law and the broader human rights system. Targeting organisations and individuals who advocate for the rights of Indigenous Peoples is an unacceptable violation of international law and the right to freedom of organisation.”
Aslak Holmberg, president of the Saami Council. Photo: The Saami Council
A functioning and independent civil society is essential for upholding the rule of law and human rights. Targeting organisations and individuals who advocate for the rights of Indigenous Peoples is an unacceptable violation of international law and the right to freedom of organisation. By criminalising the vital work of defending land, culture, and Indigenous identity, these actions undermine the fundamental rights of Indigenous Peoples and threaten the survival of their communities, traditions, and ways of life.
The Saami Council calls on Russia to ensure that civil society can freely work towards ensuring that human rights standards are upheld, and calls upon the international community to urgently address this alarming situation and to stand firm in the defence of human rights for all.