Russian activist group, the LGBT Network, has filed a formal complaint demanding a criminal investigation into Chechnya’s alleged detention and torture of LGBTI people.
Igor Kochetkov, Executive Director of the LGBT Network, submitted the complaint to the Investigative Committee of Russia.
Kochetkov specifically asked for an investigation of information regarding the alleged detention, torture, and deaths of 14 people.
The LGBT Network has been at the forefront of reporting on the alleged actions in Chechnya. Per their information, Chechen authorities detained the 14 victims in Grozny, the capital city of Chechnya, between 6 December and 22 January.
Activists believe there are more victims across the Russian state than these 14, however.
There have been reports before of anti-gay activity in Chechnya. This latest purge began early into 2019, according to the LGBT Network.
They also reported that among the at least 40 people detained this year, two men died due to ‘extreme torture’.
There are also reports this time of LGBTI women being detained and sexually assaulted.
What we can do
The Canadian organization Rainbow Railroad, dedicated to helping LGBTI people across the world escape violence and persecution, posted a Facebook today about the situation in Chechnya.
Posted by Rainbow Railroad on Tuesday, 29 January 2019
In it, they discuss working with the LGBT Network, how Chechen refugees have resettled in Canada, and how people can help and stay informed.
Helping Chechnya
Gay Star News is partnering with the Russian LGBT Network to help raise critical funds to help gay people escape Chechnya. The funds will go towards organizing passports, airfares and accommodation in safe houses for the hundreds of persecuted Chechens.
The fundraiser will launch in the next few days. Please subscribe to the below mailing list to be kept updated of the fundraiser’s launch.
See also
Is Chechnya’s torture and killing of LGBTI people a new Holocaust?
LGBTI people face torture and death in Chechnya – here’s how you can help them
Londoners rally at Russian embassy demanding end to torture in Chechnya