My name is Elena. I am a Russian citizen who has been living in the Netherlands since June 2022. I moved here as the partner of a highly skilled migrant. In the summer of 2024, my partner informed the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) that our relationship had ended—although in reality, we continued to live together and share a household. Then I applied for an independent humanitarian visa.

My 14-year-old son already holds a humanitarian visa based on his studies and is not legally dependent on me. However, on February 24, 2025, the IND refused to extend my residence permit and notified me that both my son and I must return to Russia.

Why Returning to Russia is Dangerous for Us

We both oppose the war and the actions of the Russian government. After the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, I repeatedly spoke out against the war and received threats in response. I also have information indicating that a denunciation was written against me.

If we are forced to return:

1. My son faces inevitable military conscription. In just a few years, he will be of conscription age. He is a boy adapted to life in The Netherlands, with an acceptance of European values, a respectful attitude towards human rights and the rules of a democratic state. Despite his anti-war beliefs and his deep understanding of the injustice of the invasion, he will be forced to become a soldier in the aggressor’s army.

2. We both face potential criminal prosecution. Publicly expressing anti-war opinions in Russia is punishable under the law on "discrediting the Russian army" (Article 280.3 of the Russian Criminal Code). Our return would place us under direct threat of persecution for our beliefs.

3. My son’s education and future will be destroyed. After nearly three years in the Dutch education system, when the main focus was on learning Dutch because he is a foreigner, he would be unable to attend Russian university and delay military service. He also faces a high risk of bullying due to his foreign experiences and anti-war stance.

The Netherlands Must Uphold Its Commitment to Protecting Children

Despite the Netherlands' stated commitment to protecting children's rights, this decision ignores my son’s future and safety. Deporting us would expose him to a militarized state, criminal threats, and the loss of his right to an education and a peaceful life.

I am ready to share my full story and provide additional evidence supporting these facts.

We ask for your support in urging the Dutch authorities to:

1. Reconsider the decision to refuse my residence permit and allow me to stay with my son.
2. Protect my son’s future by preventing his forced return to a country where he faces conscription and persecution.
Please help us ensure that a child is not unfairly deprived of his safety and future.

We urgently need your voice. Sign this petition and stand with us against an unjust decision that threatens a child’s life and well-being.

Sincerely,
Elena