July 2014

Valentina Cherevatenko

PeaceWoman and Human Rights Defender from Russia

21 years ago Valentina Cherevatenko founded the “Women of the Don” Alliance, together with like-minded people. Since the first Chechen war (1995), the alliance has committed itself to reconciliation and peace in the Caucasus. Further, the organization focuses on psycho-social rehabilitation of conflict victims, and strengthens women’s rights. In 2013 the organization led an aid programme for victims of the flood disaster in North Caucasus. Now the very existence of this important alliance is under threat: since the introduction of the so-called NGO law in Russia, two years ago, the organization’s personnel is at risk of severe financial penalties or imprisonment. The NGO law is directed against all non-governmental organizations that are (co-)financed by foreign donors. Even though Valentina Cherevatenko has repeatedly declared that her organization is not politically active, the “Women of the Don” Alliance was registered as a foreign agent in June of this year.