Stories From Some Of The Lawyers Imprisoned Around The World
Lawyers play a crucial role in upholding justice and defending human rights. However, in many parts of the world, legal professionals face imprisonment, harassment, and even torture for performing their duties. Below are notable cases highlighting the risks lawyers encounter globally:
Russia: Navalny’s Defense Team Imprisoned
In January 2025, three lawyers Vadim Kobzev, Alexei Liptser, and Igor Sergunin who represented the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny were sentenced to prison terms ranging from 3½ to 5½ years. They were accused of facilitating communication between Navalny and his supporters, actions deemed as involvement with an extremist organization. Critics argue these convictions aim to deter legal professionals from defending political dissidents.
China: Crackdown on Human Rights Lawyers
China has intensified its suppression of human rights lawyers. In 2023, Li Yuhan was sentenced to 6½ years in prison on charges of “picking quarrels and provoking troubles” and fraud after being detained for six years. Additionally, prominent lawyers Xu Zhiyong and Ding Jiaxi received prison terms exceeding a decade each for alleged subversion. In 2024, lawyer Yu Wensheng and his wife Xu Yan were sentenced for attempting to meet with European Union diplomats, highlighting the risks faced by legal professionals engaging with international entities.
Iran: Targeting of Lawyers Amid Protests
Following the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests in Iran, authorities have detained nearly 80 lawyers since 2021, with hundreds losing their licenses. These legal professionals were primarily involved in defending protesters and advocating for fair trials, making them targets in the government’s crackdown on dissent.
Turkey: Mass Prosecution of Legal Professionals
Turkey has prosecuted over 1,700 lawyers, with at least 553 sentenced to a combined total of 3,380 years in prison. Charges often include alleged membership in terrorist organizations, with many lawyers prosecuted based on the identities of their clients, blurring the line between legal representation and criminal association.
Belarus: Detention of Lawyers Supporting Political Prisoners
In Belarus, authorities detained at least 12 lawyers during mass raids targeting individuals assisting political prisoners. This action is part of a broader suppression following disputed elections and widespread protests, aiming to intimidate and silence those providing legal support to opposition figures.
Equatorial Guinea: Imprisonment and Torture of Fabián Nsue
Fabián Nsue, a prominent human rights lawyer in Equatorial Guinea, was arrested in 2002 while preparing to defend political prisoners. He was sentenced to one year in prison for defamation of the president and endured torture during his five-month confinement in Black Beach prison. Amnesty International recognized him as a prisoner of conscience, highlighting the severe risks faced by lawyers in repressive regimes.
These cases underscore the perilous conditions under which many lawyers operate, especially when defending human rights and political freedoms. The imprisonment of legal professionals not only violates individual rights but also undermines the rule of law and access to justice globally.