UN Experts Pressure UAE to Free Ravil Mingazov

London - In a significant intervention, UN experts have warned against the forcible return of Ravil Mingazov to Russia by the UAE government and have called for an immediate end to his arbitrary detention. The UN experts expressed deep concern about the imminent risk of forcibly repatriating Mr. Mingazov to Russia. This action is seen as a violation of multiple rights under international law, specifically the prohibition against refoulement. The US and Emirati governments are urged to honour their international obligations, including diplomatic assurances for resettlement, and consider the well-documented risks to Mr. Mingazov's physical and moral well-being if he is returned against his will. Mr. Mingazov, who has been a victim of torture, abuse and mistreatment during his detention at Guantánamo Bay, was arbitrarily held by the United States for nearly 15 years. His extended and indefinite arbitrary detention in an undisclosed location in the UAE, where he faced further torture and abuse, makes him vulnerable to further rights violations. The governments of the UAE and the USA are urged to disclose the terms of the resettlement program to protect Mr. Mingazov. Furthermore, there is a strong appeal for the UAE to release him, to ensure his safety and fundamental rights, and that he is resettled in the UK where he would be reunited with his family. <h3>Anas Mustapha, head of Public Advocacy at CAGE, said:</h3> “This timely intervention by UN experts underscores the gravity of the situation surrounding the case of Ravil Mingazov. The prohibition against refoulement is a fundamental principle of international law, and the US and Emirati governments must ensure that it is upheld. Mr. Mingazov has endured unimaginable suffering, having been a victim of torture and detention without trial or charge for nearly 20 years. It is imperative that the Emirati government release him and that he is resettled and reunited with his family in the UK.”