In the aftermath of a tragic attack on Crocus City Hall in Moscow, where 144 lives were lost, Russian authorities responded by detaining suspects predominantly of Tajik origin. This crackdown extended to 23 other Central Asian migrants, casting a long shadow of guilt over millions who had no involvement in the crime. Consequently, innocent Central Asians in Russia, numbering around 3.3 million, face increasing adversity.
The nation’s reliance on Central Asian migrant labour contrasts starkly with pervasive xenophobia. Ethnic profiling and arrests have surged, intensifying the hostile environment for these workers, who now contend with harassment from both police and ultranationalist groups. Reports from migrants, like one from Tajikistan, paint a bleak picture of their daily existence filled with fear and humiliation.
Despite international human rights standards guaranteeing basic rights such as life, liberty, and protection from inhumane treatment, these promises remain unfulfilled for Central Asians in Russia. The present climate of hostility makes it evident that their grievances are largely ignored, further entrenching their struggle for dignity and justice.
On another global front, recent violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has resulted in severe civilian casualties, largely attributed to a Rwandan-backed armed group, M23. This group has recently expanded its control, marking a continuation of widespread abuses ongoing since 2012, exacerbated by the lack of accountability from Congolese and Rwandan authorities.
The situation in Congo is complicated by regional dynamics involving several countries, including Burundi and Uganda, all wrestling for influence, while the UN peacekeeping forces strive to maintain some semblance of order. However, the insufficient global attention on Congo, overshadowed by crises elsewhere, reflects a wider fatigue towards the persistent conflict. As the region continues to descend into chaos, the international community’s response remains tepid, lacking the urgency it warrants.
A recent concert attack in Moscow has led to increased discrimination against Central Asians, with authorities detaining suspects primarily of Tajik origin. Those innocent migrants now face heightened fears and violations of their rights. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a resurgence of violence from the M23 group continues to inflict harm on civilians, compounded by a lack of international attention and accountability from local leaders.
In summary, Central Asians in Russia continue to face unjust scrutiny and hostility following a concert tragedy, while their basic rights are neglected. This atmosphere of fear undermines their dignity as workers in a country reliant on their labour. Additionally, ongoing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo highlights the need for accountability amid a complex international landscape that remains largely indifferent to the plight of those suffering from these crises.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
