Detention: On August 31, 2023, Russian security forces conducted a series of searches in the homes of Jehovah's Witnesses, after which a criminal case was initiated against Kateryna Demidova under Part 2 of Article 282.2 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation ('participation in the activities of an extremist organization'). After interrogation, she was released under a travel restriction. Human rights defenders emphasize that the persecution is solely related to her religious beliefs.

Verdict: As of July 26, 2026, there is no final verdict. The criminal case continues to be considered by the court of first instance. Kateryna Demidova remains under a travel restriction. The human rights project 'Support for Political Prisoners. Memorial' recognizes her as a person facing politically motivated persecution.

Kateryna Mykolaivna Demidova was born on December 7, 1956, in the city of Ichnia, Chernihiv region, Ukraine. She grew up in a family of collective farm workers. In her youth, she was actively involved in skiing, participated in competitions, and received numerous awards. After finishing school, she entered a public catering college in Crimea, where she obtained a specialty and stayed to work upon graduation.

In the late 1990s, Kateryna Demidova began studying the Bible. According to her, this acquaintance with biblical teachings was a defining stage in her life. In 2005, she joined the Jehovah's Witnesses religious community. Before the persecution began, she lived in Simferopol with her husband, led a peaceful life, and participated in her community's worship services.

Following the 2017 decision of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation to liquidate the legal entities of Jehovah's Witnesses, Russian authorities began mass criminal prosecutions of believers, including in the temporarily occupied territory of Crimea. Human rights organizations have repeatedly emphasized that peaceful religious practice cannot be considered extremism, and criminal cases against Jehovah's Witnesses violate international standards of freedom of conscience and religion.

On August 31, 2023, FSB and Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation officers conducted searches in several Jehovah's Witnesses' homes in Simferopol. A search was also conducted in Kateryna Demidova's home, during which personal belongings and electronic equipment were seized. She was then taken for questioning and informed of suspicion of participating in the activities of an 'extremist organization.' The preventive measure was a travel restriction.

According to the Russian investigation, Kateryna Demidova participated in religious gatherings, Bible readings, and joint prayers. These peaceful religious practices became the basis for criminal prosecution. The defense and human rights organizations emphasize that the charges contain no evidence of violent activity or incitement to it, and the case is punishment for exercising the right to freedom of religion.

The criminal prosecution has negatively affected the health of Kateryna Demidova and her husband. According to human rights defenders, constant psychological pressure, investigative actions, and the court process have significantly worsened their well-being. Despite this, she continues to defend her rights in court.

As of July 26, 2026, Kateryna Demidova is not in custody but remains accused in the criminal case and is under a travel restriction. There is no final verdict in the case. Human rights organizations continue to consider her persecution politically motivated and solely related to freedom of religion.

Information used from open sources: Representation of the President of Ukraine in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea, Project 'Support for Political Prisoners. Memorial', Jehovah’s Witnesses in Russia.

Photo: Project 'Support for Political Prisoners. Memorial'.

Date of update: 26.07.2026.