Vienna: protesters demand asylum for immigrants from Chechnya

About 20 activists have held an action in Vienna demanding from Austrian authorities to provide asylum to the residents of Chechnya, who had left the republic due to mobilization, and not deport them to Russia.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that after the start of the Russia's special military operation (SMO) in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, a sharp increase of those leaving Chechnya was recorded. Analysts noted that official figures on the number of those who have left Chechnya for abroad were understated. They also pointed out that fear of mobilization may not be the only reason for emigration.

The action in Vienna was timed to the international day of conscientious objectors to military service, Roza Dunaeva, the organizer of the action, who is the representative of the self-proclaimed Republic of Ichkeria in Austria, has stated.

"We believe that mobilization in Chechnya is illegal. People are trying to leave the republic, because they are being forced to participate [in the SMO] under the threat of fabrication of criminal cases," the "Kavkaz.Realii"* project quotes Roza as saying.

"There are many people in Germany and Austria who have emigrated. We demanded that they be granted international protection and not be deported back to Russia," she has added.

Let us remind you that Imams and local authorities are involved in recruiting residents of Chechnya.