Hilary Swank to Donate Chechen Fees to Charity

After attending the birthday party of Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov—who has been accused of egregious human rights abuses during his rule—actress Hilary Swank said she will donate fees she received to charity, according to reports.

Belgian actor Jean-Claude Van Damme (C) looks at Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov (R) as they watch, with Hilary Swank (R), a performance in Grozny late on October 5, 2011. Chechen strongman Ramzan Kadyrov turned 35 today with congratulatory calls from Russia's ruling duo and Hollywood stars attending grandiose celebrations in the Caucasus republic. STR/AFP/Getty Images

World Brief

After attending the birthday party of Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov—who has been accused of egregious human rights abuses during his rule—actress Hilary Swank said she will donate fees she received to charity, according to reports.

Swank, actor Jean-Claude Van Damme, and violinist Vanessa-Mae attended Kadyrov’s elaborate celebration in the capital, Grozny, more than a week ago, which drew criticism from human rights groups.

Swank said she regretted attending the birthday celebration, according to AFP. Human Rights Watch urged the celebrities to return money or any gifts from the Chechen government for attending the celebration.

“I deeply regret attending this event, which has thrown into question my long and deeply held commitment to the protection of human rights,” she said in a statement obtained by the news agency.

The two-time Oscar winner said she was not aware of allegations surrounding Kadyrov’s rule. Rights groups say that his regime has abducted people, tortured detainees, and has done extrajudicial killings.

Last week, Human Rights Foundation head Thor Halvorssen said it is “disheartening and shameful” for celebrities to attend Kadyrov’s event.