HRW urges Kazakhstan to drop charges against activist Zhanar Sekerbayeva
Human Rights Watch calls on Kazakhstan to end criminal proceedings against activist Zhanar Sekerbayeva. The organization argues the charges are fabricated and violate human rights. This appeal comes amid ongoing detentions of activists in the country.
Human Rights Watch Statement
Human Rights Watch has publicly urged the Kazakh authorities to dismiss the charges against Zhanar Sekerbayeva, an activist with the organization Feminita. HRW's Central Asia advisor, Mira Rittmann, stated that no one in Kazakhstan should face criminal prosecution for peacefully defending LGBT rights. The call highlights concerns over fabricated charges against activists.
Recent Detentions
In November, Zhanar Sekerbayeva and several other activists were detained in Kazakhstan. The detentions have sparked criticism from international human rights organizations. Feminita, an organization advocating for LGBT rights, has been at the center of these legal challenges. The Kazakh government has yet to respond to HRW's appeal.
What's Next
The Kazakh authorities are expected to review the charges against Sekerbayeva. It remains unclear whether the government will heed HRW's call to drop the case.
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HRW urges Kazakhstan to drop charges against activist Zhanar Sekerbayeva
