Natalia Kondal, a Russian citizen with Ukrainian roots from Yekaterinburg, fled Russia due to the war against Kyiv and increased repression.
With Kovcheg’s help, she rebuilt her life in Europe, like many others who protested the war, faced repression, or avoided conscription.
Kovcheg, meaning “ark,” provides housing, documents, language learning, and business guidance to Russian emigres.
It aims to maintain connections between emigres and those in Russia to prevent an “Iron Curtain” from descending.
With over 11,000 receiving psychological aid and 1,900 taking language courses, Kovcheg supports anti-war Russians internationally.
The organization also helps with cultural adaptation, legal consultation, professional coaching, and emergency housing for those in need.
Founder Anastasia Burakova’s goal is to build a democratic Russia where politics involves everyone, with Kovcheg already assisting over 150,000 Russians.