Tajik authorities have summoned the Russian ambassador to provide an explanation regarding the alleged mistreatment and abuse of Tajik nationals in Moscow.
Tajikistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed its concerns over multiple reports of Tajik citizens being subjected to unlawful detention, beatings, and other human rights violations by Russian law enforcement officers in Moscow.
Incidents of Abuse
- On June 10, 2023, a Tajik man named Saidmurod Rakhmatov was allegedly detained by Russian police without any reason and held for several hours. He was reportedly beaten and mistreated while in custody.
- On July 15, 2023, a group of Tajik workers were reportedly rounded up in a Moscow suburb by Russian police and taken to a detention center, where they were subjected to beatings and extortion.
The Tajik Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned these alleged incidents as unacceptable and has demanded that the Russian authorities take immediate action to investigate the allegations and hold those responsible accountable.
Diplomatic Response
In response to the Tajik government’s concerns, the Russian ambassador to Tajikistan, Semion Grigoryev, has been summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to provide an explanation. The ambassador has reportedly denied the allegations and stated that he will investigate the matter with Russian authorities.
Tajik authorities have warned that they will take further action if the alleged rights violations continue and if the perpetrators are not brought to justice.
The case highlights the ongoing tensions between Tajikistan and Russia over the treatment of Tajik migrants in Russia. Thousands of Tajik workers travel to Russia each year in search of employment, but many face discrimination, exploitation, and abuse.
The Tajik government has repeatedly called on Russian authorities to protect the rights of Tajik nationals and to ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect.
The outcome of the investigation into the alleged rights violations will be closely watched by both countries and will have a significant impact on their diplomatic relations.
Kind regards,
E. Thompson
