[59919] Personnel changes in Russia: Yana Lantratova appointed as Human Rights Commissioner

Personnel changes in Russia: Yana Lantratova appointed as Human Rights Commissioner

The State Duma in Russia confirmed today, May 14, 2026, the appointment of Member of Parliament Yana Lantratova (from the 'A Just Russia' faction) to the position of Human Rights Commissioner of the Russian Federation. Lantratova, 37, replaces Tatyana Moskalkova, who had served in the role since 2016 and concluded her tenure after two terms of five years each—the limit allowed by Russian law. According to the RT network, which is affiliated with government positions, the appointment passed with 301 votes in favor and 4 against.

Lantratova, known for her conservative views, was selected from a list of three candidates that also included Artem Prokofiev (KPRF) and Ivan Sukharev (LDPR). According to reports by 'Meduza', which is considered a harsh critic of the Kremlin, the appointment was endorsed by director Nikita Mikhalkov. In the past, Lantratova called for banning computer games and foreign literature, claiming they promote "destructive values." As noted by 'The Moscow Times', a media outlet critical of Russian policy, Lantratova even suggested establishing censorship bodies similar to those of the Soviet era.

Moskalkova, who thanked President Putin for her term, stated in her report that she had assisted over two million Russian citizens. However, the BBC Russian service noted that Moskalkova is subject to international sanctions due to her involvement in coordinating prisoner exchanges and reports regarding the deportation of children from Ukraine. Lantratova also faces harsh criticism from Ukrainian and Western parties; according to 'Vazhnye Istorii', Lantratova is involved in the transfer of Ukrainian children into Russian territory, an accusation she herself categorically denies.

In her maiden speech as Commissioner, Lantratova declared her intention to give "unconditional priority" to supporting soldiers participating in the war in Ukraine and their families. According to the 'Sota' agency, which is considered independent and critical, the appointment marks a continuation of the trend of aligning human rights institutions with the needs of "legal sovereignty" and the freezing of traditional oversight mechanisms over the government.