The Tajik Youth for the Revival of Tajikistan expresses its deep concern and regret over the detention of Ismoil Kholov, a political activist and member of the opposition group Group 24, at the Armenian border.
Ismoil Kholov is a Tajik citizen and political activist who has lived in exile for many years due to politically motivated persecution. He has peacefully advocated for civil and political rights. His detention comes despite the fact that the European Court of Human Rights has recognized and upheld his rights in the past.
We trust that Armenia, as a signatory to the Geneva Convention and other key international human rights treaties guaranteeing the right to asylum and protection from persecution, will refrain from any action that may result in the deportation or extradition of a political activist to a country where he faces a serious risk of torture and repression.
The Tajik Youth for the Revival of Tajikistan declares:
- All legal proceedings related to Ismoil Kholov’s case must be conducted in strict accordance with international legal standards and with respect for the principles of justice and human rights;
- Given the credible risk of persecution, torture, and severe human rights violations in the event of his return to Tajikistan, Ismoil Kholov must be released immediately, and safe conditions for his residence in a third or host country must be guaranteed;
- The authorities of the Republic of Armenia must subject any extradition request to thorough legal scrutiny and independent risk assessment, and must refrain from taking any action that could lead to violations of his fundamental rights.
We call on civil society, human rights organizations, and independent media to support the protection of Ismoil Kholov’s rights and raise their voices to prevent similar outcomes for other political activists.
Kind regards,
Tajik Youth for the Revival of Tajikistan
