No Justice for Azimjan Askarov: The Elusive Pursuit of Human Rights in Kyrgyzstan

No Justice 3 Years After Kyrgyzstan Rights Defender’s Death

A Tragic Loss

On July 25, 2020, Azimjon Askarov, a prominent human rights defender and advocate for marginalized communities in southern Kyrgyzstan, died in prison. Today marks the third anniversary of his death, yet no one has been held accountable for his unjust imprisonment and subsequent passing.

Askarov should have celebrated his 72nd birthday this year, surrounded by his loved ones and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. Instead, he spent his final years behind bars, held on false charges related to the inter-ethnic conflict in southern Kyrgyzstan in 2010. In March 2016, the United Nations Human Rights Committee concluded that Askarov had been arbitrarily detained and called for his immediate release. However, the Kyrgyz government failed to comply with this international commitment, disregarding its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

The official cause of his death was reported as complications from Covid-19, but it is important to note that Askarov’s health had significantly deteriorated during his imprisonment. In the days leading up to his passing, he became severely ill. Despite repeated pleas from his lawyers and various international bodies, prison authorities denied his release on humanitarian grounds. The subsequent investigation into his death was marred by procedural violations and conflicts of interest, leading to its closure in June 2021. It was only after mounting pressure from national and international human rights organizations that the investigation was reopened in September 2021.

However, to this day, there has been no public report outlining the findings of the investigation. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the fairness of the process as the authorities returned the case to prison authorities. This lack of transparency and accountability further highlights the broader issue of the politicization of justice in Kyrgyzstan.

Politicization of Justice

Askarov’s arbitrary arrest, unfair trial, and mistreatment in prison are not isolated incidents but rather indicative of a broader problem plaguing Kyrgyzstan‘s justice system. Currently, two dozen individuals, including activists, journalists, and politicians, are being tried behind closed doors for their involvement in a peaceful protest over water resource management. These individuals have been in pretrial custody since October 2022.

In addition, a series of new legislative proposals aimed at cracking down on the media and civil society have raised concerns about the erosion of freedoms in Kyrgyzstan. It is worth noting that in February, Kyrgyzstan became a member of the UN Human Rights Council, signaling its commitment to strengthening cooperation with international human rights mechanisms.

Call for Action

To uphold its commitment and demonstrate a genuine willingness to address human rights violations, the Kyrgyz government must take immediate action. First and foremost, it must respect the decision of the UN Human Rights Committee and quash Askarov’s conviction. This would be a crucial step towards rectifying the injustice inflicted upon him.

Furthermore, there is an urgent need for an effective and impartial investigation into Askarov’s death. The findings of this investigation must be made public to ensure transparency and restore public trust in the justice system. Additionally, appropriate redress should be provided to his grieving family.

However, if the Kyrgyz government truly intends to right the wrongs done to Azimjon Askarov, it must go a step further. It should urgently release all those who have been wrongly imprisoned for exercising their fundamental rights. This includes the activists, journalists, and politicians currently held in pretrial custody, as well as others who have been victims of the politicization of justice in Kyrgyzstan.

A Final Call for Justice

The case of Azimjon Askarov serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding human rights and the critical role that justice plays in a society. It is the responsibility of governments to safeguard the rights and freedoms of their citizens, and Kyrgyzstan is no exception.

As the country continues its journey as a member of the UN Human Rights Council, it must embrace this opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to human rights principles. Upholding justice, promoting transparency, and ensuring the rule of law are crucial steps towards a more inclusive and equitable society in Kyrgyzstan.

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