Oleksandra Matviichuk: Defending Human Rights and Dignity in Ukraine

Oleksandra Matviichuk, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and human rights lawyer, has reiterated her commitment to defending freedom and dignity in Ukraine and the broader Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) region, during an interview published by E-International Relations on July 25, 2026. Matviichuk, the head of the Ukrainian Human Rights Center “Memorial,” emphasized the ongoing challenges posed by the Russia-Ukraine War, which has intensified threats to human rights across the region.

Matviichuk described her work as a “lifelong mission to hold power accountable,” citing the need to document war crimes, protect civilians, and ensure legal redress for victims. She highlighted the role of her organization in collecting evidence of Russian military violations, including allegations of torture, forced displacement, and summary executions in occupied territories. “Every day, we face new atrocities,” she said. “Our task is to ensure these crimes are not buried in silence.”

The interview took place amid escalating tensions in the war, which entered its sixth year in 2026. Matviichuk noted that the OSCE, which monitors human rights and security in 57 countries, has struggled to enforce its mandates in the face of geopolitical divisions. “The OSCE’s effectiveness is undermined by the lack of consensus among member states,” she said. “When powerful nations prioritize political interests over human rights, the vulnerable suffer.”

Her remarks come as Ukraine continues to grapple with the aftermath of Russia’s full-scale invasion, which began in February 2022. According to the United Nations, over 100,000 civilians have been killed, and more than 10 million displaced since the conflict escalated. Matviichuk’s organization has documented thousands of cases of alleged war crimes, many linked to Russian forces. “We are not just recording events—we are building a legal record that could lead to justice,” she said.

Matviichuk also addressed the role of international institutions in addressing the crisis. She criticized the slow pace of investigations by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and called for greater political will to prosecute perpetrators. “The ICC has the tools to act, but it needs support from states,” she said. “Without accountability, impunity will prevail.”

The Nobel Peace Prize, which Matviichuk received in 2022 as part of the Center “Memorial,” has brought global attention to her work. However, she stressed that the award is a “call to action” rather than a recognition of past achievements. “Our work is far from over,” she said. “The war is still raging, and the human rights situation remains dire.”

Her organization has also focused on protecting Ukrainian cultural heritage, which she described as a “target of destruction.” Russian forces have been accused of demolishing historical sites, looting museums, and erasing Ukrainian identity in occupied areas. “This is not just about buildings—it’s about erasing a people’s memory,” Matviichuk said.

Matviichuk’s advocacy extends beyond Ukraine. She has spoken about the broader implications of the war for the OSCE, which includes nations from Europe, Central Asia, and North America. “The region’s stability depends on upholding the rule of law,” she said. “When one country violates human rights, it threatens the entire system.”

Despite the challenges, Matviichuk expressed cautious optimism about the resilience of Ukrainian society. “The people of Ukraine have shown extraordinary courage,” she said. “They are fighting not just for their country, but for the values of freedom and dignity.” She called on the international community to maintain support for Ukraine’s legal and humanitarian needs.

Her interview underscores the critical role of human rights defenders in conflict zones. As the war continues, organizations like hers remain vital in documenting abuses, advocating for justice, and preserving the rights of affected populations. “Human rights are not a luxury—they are the foundation of peace,” Matviichuk said. “Without them, there can be no lasting resolution.”