The ECHR Has Abandoned Russians Who Are Victims of Their Own Government

On September 3, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) made a groundbreaking decision that has sent shockwaves through the international justice system. The Court ruled that it would no longer examine 879 remaining cases against Russia, affecting over 1,500 individuals and organizations. This unprecedented move comes after Russia's expulsion from the Council of Europe following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The Court's decision to dismiss these cases, mostly related to conflicts in Ukraine and Georgia, has sparked outrage among advocates for human rights. Many of the plaintiffs, including victims of terrorism, bombings, and torture, had waited decades for justice. Russia's withdrawal from the Council of Europe in 2022 also meant the country ceased all cooperation with the ECHR, refusing to respond to requests or implement its judgments.

In a statement, the ECHR justified its decision on bureaucratic grounds, arguing that there was no point in devoting significant judicial resources to examining the remaining cases. However, critics argue that the Court's decision goes against the very principles of justice and human rights protection. They point out that the Convention allows the Court to discontinue proceedings if it is no longer justified, but only if respect for human rights requires it.

This decision disproportionately affects certain applicants, creating an unjust discrimination based on the Court's current priorities. The long-waiting plaintiffs now face the harsh reality that their cases have been discarded, despite years of diligent efforts to seek justice. The ECHR's decision has dealt a significant blow to its authority and the credibility of the international human rights protection system.