Russian Anti-Corruption Activist Wins Reversal of Asylum Denial

A Russian government official-turned activist adequately alleged he was at risk of being prosecuted for his political opinions and not just for his interference in a corruption scheme, the Sixth Circuit ruled, reversing a Board of Immigration Appeals’ refusal to grant asylum.

Andrei Skripkov led a regional government enterprise responsible for organizing banquets and mass events, he told the board. After refusing to comply with a corrupt bidding scheme, Skripkov left his government role, reported the corruption, and took on a role as an anti-corruption activist.

During the course of his activism, he was repeatedly arrested at protests, beaten, and ...