Secretary General’s Statement on the death of Alexei Navalny

Alexei Navalny lost his life as he courageously fought for democracy for the Russian people.

Mr. Navalny’s killing further proves the clear link between Russia’s repression at home and its aggression abroad. The fact that he was imprisoned in the first place for what should be a legitimate democratic right to call for changes is troubling.

I am also concerned about the mass arrests that are taking place across Russia, punishing people for simply mourning the loss of Alexei Navalny.

Democracies must demand Russia stop the persecution of political dissent and opposition, abuses of power, the repression of civil society, and the limitation on the full enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

As I join Russians in mourning the loss of their defender of democracy and human rights, I express my strong concern about the safety of other political prisoners of the Kremlin, including Vladimir Kara-Murza, and demand their immediate release.