On July 28, 2025, in Geneva, during the events of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), a delegation from the Russian Federation took the floor — including Valentina Matvienko, Chair of the Federation Council, one of the key figures of the Putin regime and directly complicit in launching the full-scale war against Ukraine.
From the international stage, blatant falsehoods were voiced — an attempt to present aggression as “protection,” occupation as “peacekeeping,” and mass atrocities as “humanitarian action.” Such speeches are not merely provocative; they are a continuation of Kremlin propaganda, fueling further violence, repression, and the erosion of the international order.
We respect Switzerland’s international obligations as a country hosting UN institutions and key diplomatic missions. We recognize the historic importance of Swiss neutrality. However, we firmly believe that neutrality must not become synonymous with indifference in the face of evil and lies.
In today’s world, where violations of international law and human rights are becoming increasingly systemic, the moral integrity of neutral and internationally respected states such as Switzerland is more crucial than ever. Informing the international community about crimes against humanity is not an act of politicization — it is a demonstration of humanitarian responsibility.
In this regard, we propose holding a public screening of the documentary film “Systema Terrora” on the premises of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Geneva. This film, already presented at the European Parliament and forming the basis for a parliamentary resolution, exposes the horrifying reality of a network of concentration camps established by Russia for Ukrainian civilians in the occupied territories of Ukraine.
According to testimonies from human rights defenders and international observers, since 2022 Russia has operated a system of more than 40 camps and detention facilities where tens of thousands of Ukrainian civilians are held. Victims are abducted, interrogated, tortured, and in many cases killed. This is a vast, centrally coordinated system of terror — one that meets the legal definition of crimes against humanity.
Geneva is the historic heart of international humanitarian law — the birthplace of the Geneva Conventions, which define the treatment of prisoners of war and the protection of civilians during armed conflict. It is here, above all, that the voices of those whose rights have been trampled and who have suffered inhuman treatment under occupation must be heard.
Following the screening, we propose an open discussion with the participation of Ukrainian human rights defenders, former prisoners, their families, international experts, and members of the Russian anti-war opposition who actively support the families of Ukrainian detainees.
We are convinced that neutrality cannot serve as a cover for silent approval of war crimes. Switzerland can and must become a space where the voices of victims of aggression are heard.
Council of the Free Russia Forum
August 2, 2025
