The Status of Chechnya

This briefing addressed the shortcomings of the Chechen education system and the impacts this had on culture and the arts. The breakdown of infrastructure and cultural institutions was attributed to the postwar shock that Chechnya had suffered through. Russia's role in this issue was also discussed.

Witnesses testifying at the briefing – including Mr. Bisultanov a Chechen writer and poet and Ms. Bagalova a Chechen actress – discussed the goals of active members of the Chechen creative intelligentsia to influence society through ideas, present through events and communications. The activities of the Andre Sakharov Foundation were highlighted.