The European Parliament adopted a resolution on the human rights situation in Chechnya, in particular the politically-motivated detention of Zarema Musaeva.
MEPs strongly condemn the kidnapping and politically-motivated detention of Zarema Musaeva, urging the Chechen authorities to immediately release her and provide her with proper medical care.
Ms. Musaeva, (the wife of former Chechen Supreme Court judge Saidi Yangulbaev and mother of human rights defender Abubakar and opposition bloggers Ibrahim and Baysangur Yangulbaev), was sentenced to five years in prison on charges of fraud and assaulting the authorities. MEPs consider this a retaliation for the legitimate human rights work and political views of her sons.
Condemning the brutal attacks on and repression of civil society, media and opposition in Chechnya, MEPs want the authorities to immediately end all forms of harassment. The Chechen government should conduct a transparent and thorough investigation into these attacks and hold those responsible accountable.
The resolution adopted by MEPs calls on the international community and the EU to respond to the extremely worrying human rights situation in Russia and in particular in Chechnya, and increase assistance to Chechen political prisoners and dissidents.
The text was adopted by 502 votes in favour, 13 against and 28 abstentions.
