Since the start of the full-scale invasion, the occupation authorities have actively carried out a campaign of forced passportization in Ukraine’s temporarily occupied territories (TOT). The occupiers attempt to frame this process as the “liberation of the territories,” but in reality, it is a hostile strategy designed to develop new tools of control and repression aimed at erasing Ukrainian national identity.
It is important to note that, under international law, the forced imposition of citizenship constitutes a gross violation of the Geneva Conventions. However, Russian occupation administrations blatantly disregard these principles, employing blackmail, intimidation, and discrimination. Forcing people to obtain Russian passports has become a tool of repression against Ukrainians who remain loyal to their country, thereby strengthening the core of the Ukrainian resistance movement every day.
At the same time, the enemy is introducing systemic restrictions on citizens who refuse to accept Russian passports. These restrictions include limited access to medical services and social benefits, as well as the confiscation of movable and immovable property.
In addition to the previously mentioned objectives, forced passportization is a tool for consolidating power and control. By issuing passports, the occupiers seek to portray the residents of the TOT as “citizens of Russia,” attempting to legitimize their crimes, even before the international community. Moreover, the occupiers unlawfully collect personal data to tighten their control over the population and suppress the Ukrainian resistance movement.
You can stop the policy of the Russian invaders and their collaborators by publicizing their crimes and demanding their international prosecution. You can also participate in rallies in support of Ukraine or donate to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
