Protection for Persecuted LGBT People in Chechnya: An Analysis for Human Rights Accountability

Abstract

Reports in 2017 and 2018 from various sources including civil society organizations (CSOs)1 and multilateral institutions2 suggest that the Chechen government of Ramzan Kadyrov has been systematically violating the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered (LGBT) within the Republic. This paper will provide an analysis of the evolving situation in Chechnya and consider potential levers for action. To do so, this analysis begins with outlining the crimes that have been committed and how they fit within international legal frameworks as per treaties within the context of the United Nations (UN) and Council of Europe (CoE). Next, I detail the relevance of NGOs and their role evolving role in responding to the situation. Finally, various bilateral and multilateral human rights mechanisms are reviewed in terms of their merits and limitations and their applicability to the current situation. In closing, I conclude that the best way forward is a blended approach between both multilateral and bilateral mechanisms while distinguishing between immediate needs and longer-term goals. Key words: LGBT, Chechnya, United Nations, Council of Europe, human rights, intervention