Reacting to the detention of prominent Kyrgyzstani human rights defender Rita Karasartova, Marie Struthers, Amnesty International’s Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia, said:
“The detention of Rita Karasartova is a troubling development in Kyrgyzstan’s deepening crackdown on civic space. It appears linked solely to her public engagement with a politically sensitive case.”
“Kyrgyzstani authorities must immediately provide a clear legal basis for Rita Karasartova’s detention, ensure that her rights are fully respected and she has access to adequate healthcare. If she is being detained solely for exercising her right to freedom of expression – as seems to be the case – she must be released immediately and unconditionally.”
Kyrgyzstani authorities must immediately provide a clear legal basis for Rita Karasartova’s detention, ensure that her rights are fully respected and she has access to adequate healthcare
Marie Struthers, Amnesty International’s Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia
“Kyrgyzstan’s human rights defenders must be able to carry out their vital work free from harassment or reprisal.”
Background
On the evening of 14 April 2025, law enforcement officers conducted a search of Rita Karasartova’s home in Bishkek. According to eyewitnesses, a group of 12 officers – three of whom were masked and armed – confiscated electronic equipment and documents. Rita Karasartova was taken to police headquarters for questioning and subsequently placed in a temporary detention facility for 48 hours.
The search and arrest occurred shortly after she shared on her Facebook page a letter from exiled Kyrgyzstani activist Tilekmat Kurenov, who according to reports has recently gone missing in the United Arab Emirates.
Authorities have yet to file formal charges against Rita Karasartova but cite Article 278(3) of the Criminal Code (“mass riots”) as the basis for her detention.
Rita Karasartova featured in Amnesty International’s 2023 Write for Rights campaign. She recently underwent surgery and is in need of specialist healthcare.
