The EU has introduced an accelerated asylum procedure for Russians. Now there are fewer chances to get protection, especially for LGBTQ+ people and activists. Let's figure out what has changed

On June 12, 2026, new rules for considering asylum applications came into force in the European Union. Russia was included in the list of countries whose citizens are now undergoing an "accelerated procedure". This decision has already caused alarm among human rights activists: in their opinion, the new norms undermine the right to an individual assessment of each case and create additional risks for the most vulnerable categories of applicants.

We tell you how the new system works and what to prepare for for those who seek protection in Europe.

Why have the rules changed for citizens of the Russian Federation?

In the European Union, there is a so-called "The 20% Principle". If the average approval rate for international protection applications for nationals of a particular country is less than 20%, their cases are processed on an expedited basis. According to Eurostat, this figure for Russians is now 18,1%.

Human Rights Watch said this mathematical logic creates a dangerous "presumption of non-danger," with officials assuming in advance that a petitioner from that country is unlikely to need protection.

What is the "accelerated procedure" and why is it dangerous?

The main difference is in the terms and conditions of detention. Now only 12 weeks. For comparison: a standard procedure can last for months and even years.

The main risks of the accelerated order are:

• Restriction of liberty: Applicants are actually not allowed inside the country, but are accommodated in closed institutions (transit areas of airports or camps at the border).
• Security issues: Instead of a full-fledged lawyer who protects the interests of the applicant, at the border they often provide only a consultant who simply explains the rights.
• Tight deadlines: It will be necessary to collect evidence and appeal in case of refusal as quickly as possible, which is almost impossible for those who evacuated urgently.

Who is at risk?

First of all, the new rules will hit those whose risks of persecution are individual or systemic, which is difficult to prove in a hurry. Lawyers distinguish the following groups:

• LGBTQ people. Human rights activists from EQUAL PostOst emphasize that queer people in the Russian Federation are subjected to institutional persecution, and their risks cannot be equated with the "average citizen".
• Trans people. In closed centres at the border, it is not possible to receive specific medical care, such as life-saving hormone therapy.
• Journalists and activists. They often take time to collect a package of documents confirming their activities and threats.
• Other categories: draft dodgers, members of religious minorities, and women from the North Caucasus fleeing violence.

What do lawyers advise?

If you plan to apply for asylum at the border, human rights activists recommend preparing in advance, as there may not be an opportunity to send documents later:

1. Collect a full package of documents before leaving. All evidence of persecution, medical certificates and copies must be carried with you.
2. Talk about the vulnerability right away. If you have experienced violence, torture or have PTSD, you need to declare this at the very first interview. This will help prove that you need "special procedural safeguards" and a transfer to a standard (non-expedited) procedure.
3. Medical prescriptions. People who need regular medication need to have prescriptions and confirmation of diagnoses with them to try to get the necessary care in a closed center.

Human rights activists insist that LGBTIQ people and other vulnerable groups should be automatically transferred to the standard procedure, since the "fast-track" format does not allow for an adequate assessment of their safety.