Increased violence in Russia linked to former prisoners pardoned to fight in Ukraine, highlighting rising domestic violence and crimes against women.

The recruitment of convicted criminals to bolster Russian military forces began gaining attention last year and was formalized in March 2024 when a law was passed allowing prisoners to be released if they enlisted in the military. An estimated 170,000 violent offenders have been recruited, leading to a concerning trend of rising violence upon their return. Katzarova highlighted that there is a significant increase in crimes such as rape and murder, contributing to the existing crisis of domestic violence in Russia, where thousands of women die annually due to such violence. Notably, Russia lacks specific laws addressing domestic and gender-based violence, which complicates efforts to combat these issues.

Key Issues

Recruitment of Convicted Criminals Initially, the Wagner mercenary group was responsible for recruiting inmates, but this task has since shifted to the Russian Defense Ministry. The strategy to utilize prisoners as soldiers reflects the Kremlin’s desperation to maintain troop levels in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Impact on Domestic Violence The return of former prisoners has been associated with an alarming rise in violence against women. Katzarova emphasized that the absence of legal frameworks addressing domestic violence in Russia exacerbates the situation, leaving many victims without adequate protection or recourse.

Broader Context of Violence The ongoing war in Ukraine has led to significant societal changes within Russia, including increased militarization and a rise in violent crime as a result of the return of these former prisoners. The phenomenon raises critical questions about the long-term implications for Russian society and the safety of vulnerable populations, particularly women and children.