Aishat Baimuradova, a 23-year-old woman from Chechnya, was recently found dead in Armenia under suspicious circumstances. She had fled her conservative Muslim homeland in search of personal freedom, reportedly cutting her hair, abandoning her headscarf, and sharing selfies on social media. According to police, Aishat was murdered, and witnesses noted that two individuals were seen leaving the building where her body was discovered shortly before its discovery. These individuals reportedly fled to Russia afterward, which does not require a passport for citizens.
Aishat’s death stands out as she is the first known Chechen woman to die under contentious circumstances shortly after fleeing. Like many women from Chechnya, she had expressed discontent with the restrictions imposed by her family, including forced marriage and strict monitoring. Following her arrival in Armenia at the end of 2024, facilitated by a crisis organization, she had openly discussed the conservative gender roles in Chechnya. Aishat initially found work in a small town before relocating to Yerevan for better opportunities.
The investigation into her murder is ongoing, with Armenian authorities looking into the two unnamed individuals seen with her. However, Chechen officials have denied any involvement, labeling such claims as unfounded attacks. Historically, several critics of Chechnya’s ruling authorities have met violent ends outside Russia, raising concerns about a potential pattern of retaliation against dissenters.
In response to Aishat’s death, many Chechen women living abroad are reportedly feeling increased anxiety. Previous attempts to escape the oppressive environment of Chechnya had already prompted caution among these women, but Aishat’s murder has rekindled fears regarding their safety and the potential consequences of their choices.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gwgx803l5o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss