Currently, several political parties and movements of the Chechen diaspora recognize the legitimacy of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria (ChRI) and work to promote the independence of Chechnya from the Russian Federation. These groups differ in ideological orientation, leadership, and mode of operation. Below is an overview of the main ones.
For more information, read the in-depth article by Kavkaz Realii, (HERE, RUS)
Government
of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria (ChRI)

Leader: Akhmed Zakayev
Established: 2007
Headquarters: London, United Kingdom
Akhmed Zakayev, a former Minister of Culture and Foreign Affairs under Presidents Dzhokhar Dudayev and Aslan Maskhadov, assumed the role of Prime Minister of the ChRI’s government-in-exile in 2007. This move was a direct response to Dokka Umarov’s declaration of the Caucasus Emirate, which Zakayev and his supporters viewed as a departure from the ChRI’s original nationalist and secular objectives.
The government-in-exile advocates for a democratic and independent Chechnya, emphasizing diplomatic efforts to gain international recognition. A significant milestone was achieved in October 2022 when the Ukrainian parliament recognized the ChRI as “temporarily occupied” by Russia .
Zakayev’s administration maintains a network of representatives across Europe and North America, engaging with international organizations and governments to garner support for the Chechen cause.
United Force
(Chechen National Liberation Movement)

Founded: November 25–26, 2022
Founders: Dzhambulat Suleymanov and Anzor Maskhadov (son of former President Aslan Maskhadov)
Headquarters: Paris, France
United Force emerged from the First International Congress of the Chechen Diaspora and Political Emigrants held in Melun, a suburb of Paris. The movement aims to unify various factions within the Chechen diaspora under a common goal of restoring Chechnya’s independence.
United Force emphasizes cultural preservation, education, and community engagement. It organizes events, language courses, and cultural programs to strengthen Chechen identity among diaspora communities .
While sharing the overarching objective of independence with Zakayev’s government-in-exile, United Force operates independently and has established its own international partnerships, such as an agreement with the Council of United Circassia .
Chechen Democratic Party (ChDP)

Nature: Political party founded in exile
Founder: Huseyn Iskhanov (Second Convocation Member of Parliament)
Affiliation: Recognizes and supports the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria
The Chechen Democratic Party (ChDP) was founded by members of the Chechen diaspora who remain loyal to the ideals of an independent, democratic Ichkeria. It defines itself as a citizens’ association that continues the political legacy of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria, rejecting both Russian occupation and extremist reinterpretations (such as the Caucasus Emirate).
The ChDP focuses on:
- Promoting democratic values and human rights within the Chechen community.
- Educating the younger generation about Chechen history, independence, and culture.
- Documenting and publicizing crimes committed against the Chechen people under Russian rule.
- Maintaining political activism in Europe and North America to preserve the idea of Ichkeria as a legitimate sovereign state.
Although it operates mainly in the diaspora, the ChDP seeks international engagement and collaboration with other democratic movements.
Its activity today is more cultural and political rather than military, focusing on non-violent resistance and awareness-building.
Presidium of the Government
of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria

Function: Governing and coordinating body of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria in exile
Founder: Akhyad Idigov (President of the First Convocation Parliament)
Role: Organizes political activities, represents the ChRI internationally, and manages governmental functions in exile
The Presidium serves as the central executive authority of the Chechen Republic of Ichkeria in exile.
It is responsible for:
- Coordinating the activities of different Chechen diaspora organizations loyal to Ichkeria.
- Representing the ChRI at the international level through political initiatives, statements, and diplomatic contacts.
- Preserving and promoting the constitutional continuity of Ichkeria, based on its 1992 Constitution.
- Managing official communications, issuing resolutions, open letters, and position papers on international developments affecting Chechnya.