Human rights groups have urged Ukrainian authorities to end what they describe as ongoing judicial harassment of Vitaliy Shabunin, founder and chair of the Anti-Corruption Action Center, after travel and communication restrictions were imposed on him.
The activist, whose organization has been at the forefront of anti-corruption advocacy in Ukraine, was subjected to court-ordered restrictions limiting his ability to travel and communicate. The measures have drawn criticism from civil society organizations and international partners who view them as an attempt to silence government watchdogs.
Shabunin’s organization has been instrumental in pushing for anti-corruption reforms and holding public officials accountable. The restrictions were imposed amid an ongoing legal case that the activist and his supporters say is retaliation for his advocacy work.
The case has highlighted tensions between Ukraine’s anti-corruption drive and the treatment of civil society activists who push for greater accountability. International partners have urged Ukrainian authorities to ensure that legal measures are not used to intimidate anti-corruption advocates.