Several independent sources report torture in concentration camps, known as the concentration camps in the rebel-held parts of the Donbas, in eastern Ukraine. These are depictions from prisons or prison camps in the so-called breakaway republics. There have been numerous reports of torture in these areas, most recently described by Oleh Suherey of the Kharkiv Observer.

Legal certainty in the Donbas

It is difficult to gain insight into the legal systems of these two breakaway republics. What is quite clear is that torture is used not only against Ukrainian prisoners but also the local population. This is stated in a UN report dating back to 2014 when rebels took control of parts of the area with the help of Russian forces.

The oldest and most recognized human rights group in the former Soviet Union, the Kharkiv Human Rights Protection Group, writes a number of articles on human rights and the use of torture by both prisoners and civilians in these areas. With regard to the legislation in the areas, the group points out that it is partly Ukrainian laws, partly suitable legislation that is almost a copy of Russian and partly separate sentencing surveys that are used.

Torture and executions are nothing new

Human rights organizations have previously documented torture and killings by Russian-backed rebels in the area. In 2015, Amnesty documented torture and executions of Ukrainian prisoners of war. Clear violations of international law and justice. Russia, which is the real country of occupation, has a clear responsibility as I see it.

It is strange that violations of basic human rights can take place in central Europe, without more attention to the violations. One reason, of course, is that it is difficult for independent journalists to reach the area. Another reason is Russia’s role in the conflict and the fact that Russia is a permanent member of the Security Council and thus prevents the UN from doing a good job.

Sources

Kharkiv Human Rights Protection Group

Ukrainetoday

Dagsavisen: UN report: Abductions, torture and killings of civilians in eastern Ukraine (from 2014)

Amnesty: (from 2015)