In 2024, UnMode continued monitoring cases of human rights violations against prisoners in the prisons of Georgia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, and russia as part of the PHRC project. This work was carried out with the support of the Robert Carr Fund and with the direct involvement of human rights defenders from the prison community. Thanks to their efforts, key violations were documented, and strategic cases (systemic human rights violations with the potential for review by international bodies) were formed.
This year was particularly significant: a crucial role in data collection was played by the prisoners themselves—former UnMode beneficiaries who have now become human rights defenders within their communities and fully-fledged paralegals operating inside prisons. Risking their own safety, they documented cases of ill-treatment, denial of medical care, discrimination, and violations of the right to legal defense. Their contribution is a testament to resilience and solidarity, proving that the fight for justice is possible even behind bars.
Key issues identified during the monitoring process:
- The forced transfer of Ukrainian citizens to Russian prisons;
- Denial of treatment for prisoners with drug dependence;
- Pressure on detainees with drug dependence and/or living with HIV and TB to coerce confessions or self-incrimination;
- Lack of legal protection for prisoners with severe illnesses.
UnMode’s work, in collaboration with international partners, has led to significant results: in response to several submitted complaints, UN committees issued urgent recommendations, which facilitated the release of several seriously ill prisoners. This is a unique case in Russian judicial practice.
Beyond documenting violations, UnMode representatives participated in international conferences, presented reports on the prison situation, and submitted statements to the UN, including those addressing judicial pressure in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
This report is a testament to the resilience of those who, even while imprisoned, continue to fight for human rights. Their work is changing the system and inspiring the fight for justice.
The full report is available at [link].