Freedom of association

Civil society, NGOs and trade unions play a vital role in upholding human rights, but face increasing legal and social challenges. The Commissioner seeks to improve this situation by promoting a safe civic space in which associations can fulfil their mission.

Focus

Oleg Orlov's trial is a travesty of justice

Human rights defender Oleg Orlov, one of the leaders of Russian human rights group Memorial

Oleg Orlov - a prominent human rights defender and long-time partner of my office – faces a prison sentence on charges clearly aimed at punishing him for continuously protesting against Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine.

Oleg Orlov is one of the leaders of Memorial - a Nobel Peace Prize co-laureate and the oldest and most respected human rights group, liquidated as part of a decade-long crackdown on the freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association in Russia that began with the adoption of the law on so-called “foreign agents” and has dramatically intensified in the context of the war against Ukraine.  full article