First Line
Free, anonymous psychological support for people affected by, or afraid of, political persecution and for their families; an information line and safety guides.
If Telegram doesn't open: website
Draft First minutes: what human rights defenders usually advise
Draft. Compiled from human rights groups' guides but not yet reviewed by a lawyer. This is not legal advice — check the linked sources and consult a lawyer.
current as of September 25. More: OVD-Info: child services have come to my home (extremist); OVD-Info: getting off a police watch list (extremist); OVD-Info: MAX at school (extremist)
Draft First minutes: what human rights defenders usually advise
Draft. Compiled from human rights groups' guides but not yet reviewed by a lawyer. This is not legal advice — check the linked sources and consult a lawyer.
current as of September 25. More: First Department: my child was detained (foreign agent); OVD-Info: detention of minors (extremist); Call to Conscience: opting out of military training and propaganda classes
Free, anonymous psychological support for people affected by, or afraid of, political persecution and for their families; an information line and safety guides.
If Telegram doesn't open: website
Lawyers for treason, espionage, state secrets and extremism cases, including closed trials. Advice on digital security.
If Telegram doesn't open: website
Advice for people who are detained or face administrative or criminal cases over protests and anti-war statements. They can tell you how to behave during questioning.
Since June 2026 it no longer works with lawyers in Russia; it gives advice and refers people onward. For criminal cases and pressure on families, also contact First Department and Prison Lawyer.
If Telegram doesn't open: legal@ovdinfo.org · 8 800 707-05-28