The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has concluded that the imprisonment of Vadim Kobzev and Alexei Liptser, two lawyers who represented Alexei Navalny, violates international law. The UN experts called for their immediate release, compensation for the harm they have suffered, and an investigation into their prosecution.

In its official opinion, the Working Group found that the lawyers had been imprisoned solely for carrying out their professional duties — defending Alexei Navalny. The experts identified multiple violations of their right to a fair trial, including closed-door proceedings, the refusal to hear defense witnesses, breaches of attorney-client confidentiality, and the lack of an independent tribunal. They also concluded that Russia’s law on participation in an “extremist organization” is so vaguely worded that it enables the arbitrary prosecution of political opponents.

Russian authorities failed to provide the UN Working Group with any justification for the legality of the lawyers’ detention.

The Anti-Corruption Foundation (ACF) continues its campaign for the release of Navalny’s lawyers. We raise awareness of their cases through social media and news coverage, monitor their conditions in prison, and work to bring international attention to their situation. In meetings with politicians and diplomats, we consistently raise the issue of securing Kobzev’s and Liptser’s release, including through potential prisoner exchanges.

The UN Working Group’s opinion provides further international confirmation that the prosecution of Navalny’s lawyers is unlawful. We will continue working to secure their freedom.

Vadim Kobzev and Alexei Liptser must be released immediately.