Maxwell Professor Weighs In On Russians Seeking Asylum To Avoid War In Ukraine

Lamis Abdelaaty, assistant professor of political science in the Maxwell School, was quoted by Politico for the article The coming fight over Russian asylum-seekers. The article questions whether Russians that wish to flee and avoid fighting in the war against Ukraine should be granted asylum in another country. Professor Abdelaaty provided expert advice and stated, “Under international law, risking punishment for refusing to participate in illegal combat is valid grounds for refugee status.”