Siberian Climate Activist’s Arrest Signals Escalating Repression of Indigenous Voices in Russia
The arrest of Daria Yegereva, a Selkup Indigenous woman and co-chair of the International Indigenous Peoples Forum on Climate Change (IIPFCC), on terrorism charges has sparked international outcry. This case isn’t isolated; it represents a worrying trend of escalating repression targeting Indigenous activists and environmental defenders in Russia, particularly those engaging with international bodies.
From Climate Advocacy to “Terrorism” Charges
Yegereva was detained on December 17th following a raid on her home in Tomsk, with authorities confiscating her electronic devices. The charges – “participating in the activities of a terrorist organization” – carry a potential 20-year prison sentence. Russian authorities allege her previous affiliation with an Indigenous group links her to a “non-existent” “anti-Russian separatist movement” and the Forum of Free States of Post-Russia, designated as “terrorist” in November 2024. The IIPFCC has vehemently denounced the arrest as “direct retaliation for her Indigenous rights advocacy.”
A Wider Crackdown on Indigenous Leaders
Yegereva’s arrest was part of a broader FSB security service raid targeting at least 17 Indigenous leaders across Russia. This suggests a systematic effort to silence dissenting voices and curtail Indigenous participation in environmental and political discourse. The timing is particularly concerning, coinciding with increased Kremlin control over information and a tightening grip on civil society.
International Condemnation and Calls for Release
Nearly 40 global, regional, and grassroots Indigenous caucuses and forums have signed an open letter to President Putin, urging his intervention for Yegereva’s release. The letter emphasizes the “professional and consultative character” of her participation in international processes, highlighting that her perform was conducted within officially recognized UN frameworks. The IIPFCC has stressed that Yegereva’s detention undermines confidence in the ability of Indigenous Peoples to participate fully in international processes without fear of retribution.
The Intersection of Climate Activism and Political Repression
Yegereva’s case underscores the growing intersection of climate activism and political repression. As Indigenous communities are often at the forefront of environmental protection, defending their ancestral lands and resources, they are increasingly becoming targets of state-sponsored harassment and criminalization. Her work focused on global climate cooperation and facilitating dialogue between Indigenous Peoples and States within the United Nations, including participation in COP28, COP29, and COP30.
What’s at Stake: Indigenous Rights and International Cooperation
The implications of Yegereva’s arrest extend beyond her individual case. It raises serious concerns about the future of Indigenous rights advocacy in Russia and the ability of Indigenous representatives to meaningfully engage in international climate negotiations. The criminalization of legitimate advocacy work sends a chilling message to other activists and undermines the principles of free speech and participation.
FAQ
What charges is Daria Yegereva facing?
She is charged with “participating in the activities of a terrorist organization,” which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Who is Daria Yegereva?
She is an Indigenous Selkup woman from Tomsk, Russia, and a co-chair of the International Indigenous Peoples Forum on Climate Change (IIPFCC).
What is the IIPFCC’s stance on her arrest?
The IIPFCC condemns her arrest as “direct retaliation for her Indigenous rights advocacy.”
How many Indigenous leaders were targeted in the recent raids?
At least 17 Indigenous leaders across Russia were targeted in the FSB security service raids.
What are the concerns regarding international cooperation?
There are concerns that Yegereva’s arrest will undermine confidence in the ability of Indigenous Peoples to participate fully in international processes without fear of retribution.
