Navalny's death: Who is responsible for the lives of political prisoners?

The recent announcement by the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia regarding the death of Alexei Navalny has reverberated globally, sparking renewed debate on the treatment and security of political prisoners. Navalny, a prominent opposition figure in Russia, was detained upon his return from Germany in February 2021 and subsequently sentenced to 19 years in prison on charges of creating an extremist organization.

Navalny's demise has brought to the forefront the issue of political prisoner safety, prompting discussions on accountability and responsibility. In a televised program titled "A Difficult Question," Bashir Suleymanli, head of the Institute of Civil Rights, underscored the state's obligation to ensure the well-being of all prisoners, emphasizing that this responsibility is enshrined in both domestic legislation and international conventions.

However, Suleymanli stressed that the government's duty to safeguard the lives of political prisoners carries greater significance due to the persecution they face for exercising their fundamental rights. Citing Navalny's case as emblematic, Suleymanli highlighted the parallels with previous instances of prisoner deaths in Russian penitentiaries, notably referencing Sergei Magnitsky.

Magnitsky, an auditor who uncovered widespread corruption involving Russian officials and security forces, was arrested and subsequently died in custody under suspicious circumstances. His case prompted international outcry and led to the passing of the Magnitsky Act in the United States, imposing sanctions on individuals responsible for human rights abuses and corruption in Russia.

The tragic fate of Navalny and Magnitsky underscores broader concerns about the treatment of political opponents and the erosion of democratic norms in Russia. Suleymanli's remarks extend beyond Russia, drawing attention to similar patterns of repression observed in other countries, including Azerbaijan.

In Azerbaijan, Suleymanli highlighted the alarming trend of politically motivated convictions and the implications for both the nation and its society. The use of trumped-up charges against political opponents not only undermines the rule of law but also stifles dissent and democratic progress.

The death of Alexei Navalny serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by political prisoners and the imperative of upholding their rights and safety.