Statement by the Spokesperson on the persecution, torture and killing of LGBTI persons in Chechnya - European External Action Service

19.1.19

Statement by the Spokesperson on the persecution, torture and killing of LGBTI persons in Chechnya - European External Action Service: The Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe recently published a report which highlights clear evidence of successive purges against LGBTI people in Chechnya, as well as other human rights violations. It is important that the Russian authorities take into account the recommendations in the report and take steps to implement them.

The Russian authorities have a duty to protect all their citizens in full respect of human rights principles and must urgently ensure the safety of all persons who are at risk in Chechnya owing to their sexual orientation. The European Union expects the Russian authorities to carry out swift, full and transparent investigations into the reported persecution, torture and killings of LGBTI people in Chechnya and ensure that anyone found guilty of or complicit in such crimes is brought to justice.