The “shadow” report, devoted to the review of the RF compliance with the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhumane and Degrading Treatment or Punishment, spotlights the systematic practice of torture that has been continuously applied by Kremlin since 2014 as an integral component of its overall repressive policy towards Crimean residents (mainly disloyal civilians, but also those loyal to the occupational regime). In particular, it goes about 106 already documented cases of torture and inhuman treatment (those of detainees, accused and witnesses for obtaining false testimony within politically motivated criminal proceedings; against the civilian population for coercion to cooperate with the security forces of the Russian Federation; as well as used for intimidation of civilians, and as revenge or punishment for a particular civil position, e.g. attacks against and torture of activists by paramilitary groups, enforced disappearances, usage of disproportionate force during searches and detentions; and inhuman treatment in detention facilities in Crimea), with no single incident subjected to thorough and effective investigation.

Thus, the paper contains a number of recommendations to the UN Committee against Torture for further demands from the Russia’s government related to stopping the practice of torture, preventing and investigating its instances as well as ensuring observance of the rights of torture survivors.

Authors will present the subject-matter developments and concerns on 24-26 July 2018 at the NGO briefing on the RF’s thematic report and other related events amid 64th session of the UN Committee against Torture in Geneva for bringing to light Kremlin’s unlawful systematic actions in the occupied Crimea and the necessity of introducing effective means for victims’ protection and preventive mechanisms.