Photographers Without Borders | Astana, Kazakhstan 2019
DEFENDING HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS
Public Association Kadir-Kasiyet (DIGNITY) stands with torture victims and their families, while defending the human rights defenders amid abuses in Kazakhstan.
Human rights activist Serikzhan Bilash (left) speaks with media alongside his lawyer, Aiman Umarova, following his court hearing in Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana), Kazakhstan, on July 29, 2019.
“I refuse to put my name to any deal signed under pressure,” says Aiman Umarova, an acclaimed Kazakh lawyer and human rights activist awarded the U.S. International Women of Courage prize in 2018. This image was taken during the 2019 trial of activist Serikzhan Bilash, who was forced into a guilty plea and silenced with fines and restrictions—an old tactic by Kazakh authorities to crush dissent by targeting its leaders. Despite threats, slander, and even attempts on her life, Umarova continues to defend victims of violence, paying a high personal price for refusing to be silenced.
Field Notes
In 2019, as a member of Photographers Without Borders, Canada, I documented DIGNITY’s work in Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan. Over 18 days, I witnessed a nation where fear and oppression coexisted with resilience, courage, and hope.
I met human rights defenders, victims of torture, lawyers, and young activists, capturing their stories while also experiencing the country’s warmth: traditional meals in a remote village, horseback rides across the steppe, and laughter bridging language and cultural gaps.
Working through a translator, I had to connect through body language and energy, engaging with people sharing harrowing experiences. Moving through controlled spaces under constant surveillance and pressure, every image felt both necessary and risky. In those moments, I held to an ethic of presence—photographing only what could be shared responsibly, protecting those who trusted me. My role was to be present, to witness, and to capture moments with respect—reminding me that photography depends as much on empathy, attention, and ethical judgment as on technique.
Public Association Kadir-Kasiyet (DIGNITY) is a human rights organization in Kazakhstan dedicated to protecting civil activists and human rights defenders, both locally and across Central Asia. The NGO provides advice, assistance and legal support. They monitor human rights compliance and advocate for the safety and rights of individuals who stand up against injustice. DIGNITY works to ensure that Kazakh legislation aligns with international human rights standards and fosters the development of a democratic civil society.
In Kazakhstan, every voice raised for human rights carries risk and vigilance. DIGNITY stands with those who speak up.
Mr. Yeloyev Issa, father of life-sentenced torture survivor Oleg Evloev, bears the burden of injustice. Even as legal efforts falter, DIGNITY maintains a personal, ongoing presence.
Singapore blogger Leong Sze Hian, guest speaker on censorship of free expression, at DINGINTY's 7th Platform on Human Rights Defenders, 2019, Borovoye.
Valery Ibrahimov, disabled by torture, rebuilt his life after serving his sentence. Despite DIGNITY’s support, he was deported, showing the system’s disregard for reintegration and the vulnerable.
Aida, a DIGNITY member, and her grandmother welcomed me into their countryside home, revealing human warmth and connection against the backdrop of the government’s harsh power.
Human rights advocate Olzhas Syzdykov helps former prisoners rebuild their lives, turning DIGNITY’s support into jobs, housing, and lasting community connections.