Fail Alsynov

Fail Fattakhovich Alsynov (; ; born 7 December 1986) is a Bashkir nationalist and local political activist known for his advocacy for nature protection, ethnic identity, and language preservation in Bashkortostan. In January 2024, his four-year prison sentence triggered widespread protests in the town of Baymak, drawing the participation of several thousand people.

Early life Born on 7 December 1986 in the village of Yuldybaevo, Alsynov pursued his education in the field of history at Bashkir State University.

Activism Commencing his activism in 2008, Alsynov swiftly emerged as a key figure in nature protection demonstrations within the Republic of Bashkortostan. Besides his environmental advocacy, he is renowned as one of the leading proponents for safeguarding the Bashkir language and preserving the cultural heritage of the Bashkir people.

Alsynov gained notoriety through his 2020 campaign opposing limestone mining in Kushtau, a site held sacred by Bashkirs. This activism significantly boosted his recognition, particularly within Bashkir circles. As he vocally opposed the mining activities, his influence expanded, capturing the attention of a wider audience.

Alsynov's viewpoint resonated with concerns that Russia might be deploying a disproportionate number of men from indigenous ethnic groups, including Bashkirs, to fight in the war against Ukraine.

Criminal prosecution In April 2023, Alsynov actively participated in protests against illegal mining in the Baymaksky district, delivering a speech that would later become the foundation for the criminal case against him. In a complaint personally lodged by Radiy Khabirov, the head of Bashkortostan, authorities alleged that during the protest, Alsynov made disparaging remarks about migrant workers from the Caucasus and Central Asia, accusing him of "violating" their "human dignity" by referring to them as "black people".

Police deployed tear gas to disperse the demonstrators, causing injuries to 40 protesters. Six people were jailed.