Campaign for Saidjahon Zainabitonov

I am writing to express my grave concern about the detention of Saidjahon Zainabitonov. I urge you to release Saidjahon Zainabitonov immediately and unconditionally, as it is clear that these sentences constitute an attempt by the Uzbek authorities to prevent him from carrying out his activities in defence of human right. I call on the authorities to ensure that Saidjahon Zainabitonov and all human rights defenders detained in Uzbekistan are given regular access to family, lawyers, and medical attention if necessary while in detention. Immediately cease all forcible psychiatric treatment of and allow her access to adequate medical attention. Take immediate measures to guarantee the security of all human rights defenders in Uzbekistan. Front Line respectfully reminds you that the Declaration on the Right and Responsibility of Individuals, Groups and Organs of Society to Promote and Protect Universally Recognized Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms also recognizes the legitimacy of the activities of human rights defenders and their right to carry out their activities without fear of reprisals. We would particularly draw attention to Article 12: ‘(1). Everyone has the right, individually and in association with others, to participate in peaceful activities against violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms. (2). The State shall take all necessary measures to ensure the protection by the competent authorities of everyone, individually and in association with others, against any violence, threats, retaliation, de facto or de jure adverse discrimination, pressure or any other arbitrary action as a consequence of his or her legitimate exercise of the rights referred to in the present Declaration’.

Your Sincerely,