Maxim Popov: UzbekistanMaxim

Status:
Arrested in January 2009, sentenced in September 2009 to 7 years, news which was only released in February of 2010.

Activism:
 Psychologist and author of “HIV and AIDS Today.” He is the leader of Izis, an NGO famous for work with drug addicts and commercial sex workers. With the support of UNICEF and PSI Central Asia, Povov published the book which explained how to prevent STD transmission. He is reportedly being held in prison on three different charges, one of which is the publication of the book and distribution of information on stopping the spread of HIV/AIDS.

Current Situation in Country:
The Tashkent criminal court ruled that Povov’s book was “illegal” and motivates youth to explore drugs and psychotropic agents. The government has reportedly been persecuting NGOs in the country for years by refusing to provide access to money accounts, sending tax inspectors, secret police and other services to further shut down such organizations. AIDS too is not well covered in the country, and there are fears which show that the government must change its approach to the subject of HIV/AIDS.

More Information:
 http://enews.ferghana.ru/news.php?id=1588&mode=snews  http://esciencenews.com/articles/2010/09/07/ias.calls.end.harassment.intimidation.and.imprisonment.hiv.professionals

Suggestions for Action:
Write to the government of Uzbekistan, demanding first that Maxim is released from prison on humanitarian grounds, and second that the government revisit its policies on HIV/AIDS education. See sample letter (http://www.civicus.org/media/Letter_to_Pres_Uzbeksitan_re_POPOV.doc) and email to: presidents_office@press-service.uz This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

In solidarity, join the Facebook group for his release:  http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=5309675#!/pages/Maksim-Popov/171053975896?ref=ts

Sign the open letter calling for international agencies to support his release: http://s172851359.onlinehome.us/popov.html and encourage others to sign too!

Contact the funders of Maxim’s project , UNICEF and PSI Central Asia, and ask that they stop the silence and urge their action and support on his case.