Transparency International expresses deep concern over criminal case initiated against Ilia Shumanov

26 August 2024

Transparency International is deeply concerned by the recent actions taken by the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs against Ilia Shumanov, Executive Director of Transparency International Russia in exile. Mr. Shumanov has been placed on a federal wanted list in Russia due to a criminal case initiated against him for allegedly failing to comply with the requirements imposed on "foreign agents."

The targeting of Mr. Shumanov is part of a broader strategy to intimidate and dismantle organisations that challenge corruption and promote transparency. This strategy also led to the persecution of other high-profile anti-corruption activists, such as Alexey Navalny, who faced severe repression and lost his life under suspicious circumstances while in custody.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, there has been an ongoing crackdown on civil society and anti-corruption efforts in Russia through a wave of repressive legislation and policies designed to suppress dissent. These laws have restricted the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.

We stand with Ilia Shumanov and all those courageously fighting for transparency, accountability and anti-corruption in increasingly hostile environments. Transparency International remains committed to supporting our colleagues who continue to work under threat to promote good governance and combat corruption. We call on the international community to condemn these actions, and we demand that the Russian authorities stop harassing anti-corruption activists and organisations.

The international community must not remain silent in the face of these violations of human rights and democratic principles. We urge governments, international organisations and civil society groups to join us in demanding justice for Ilia Shumanov and all those who the Russian regime has unjustly targeted.

Ilia Shumanov's targeting is a shocking example of the ongoing efforts to suppress civil society and silence those who stand up against corruption in Russia. We are deeply concerned about the targeting of those promoting transparency and accountability. Transparency International stands in full solidarity with Ilia and all courageous anti-corruption activists facing unjust persecution. We call on the international community to unequivocally condemn these actions and defend the rights of those who fight for justice and good governance.

Countries

• Russia