Protect people from persecution

Thanks to your generous contributions, we continue to provide a lifeline for those fleeing political persecution. In March 2026, your support translated into immediate legal protection, psychological stability, and safe housing for individuals facing extreme risks.

How your $72 donation made a difference:
Every dollar counts when a person’s freedom is at stake. To give you an idea of the impact, your collective $72 is equivalent to:

• 7 specialized legal consultations for activists facing criminal charges, 
  OR

• 7 emergency psychological support sessions to help survivors process the trauma of displacement, 
  OR

• 4 nights of safe emergency housing in a hotel for a person fleeing immediate arrest.

Impact Story: Iskander’s Journey to Safety
Iskander, a 27-year-old from Kazan, was targeted by security forces for his past online comments supporting Ukraine. After a violent raid on his apartment and a harrowing interrogation where he faced charges of "justifying terrorism," he was in a state of shock and uncertainty.

With the support of "The Ark" (Kovcheg) and human rights defenders, Iskander was able to leave Russia. Our coordinator, Yan, conducted a personal emergency consultation, providing him with a roadmap for his new life and ensuring he felt safe for the first time in years. Iskander’s case is a reminder of why your help is vital—it is the difference between a prison cell and a future in a free country 

We are deeply grateful for your trust. In times of crisis, the speed of our response depends on your support. Together, we are building a safety net for those who refuse to stay silent in the face of injustice.

But the requests for help never stop

Every month, more than 500 people reach out to us for help. These are individuals facing detention in third countries, or those who are simply at their breaking point due to constant persecution and threats to their safety.

Today, "The Ark" (Kovcheg) has reached a critical turning point: our current donations cover only half of the necessary expenses. We urgently need to find 700 more recurring donors to ensure we can continue helping people at risk and providing them with the protection and shelter they desperately need.

Your support is the only way to keep the doors open for hundreds of people seeking safety.

You can support our project here

With heartfelt thanks,
The Ark Team

Links:

• Iskander's Journey to Safety
• Help us