Semen Gluzman

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Semen Gluzman is a Ukrainian psychiatrist and human rights activist known for his work in exposing the abuse of psychiatry for political purposes in the Soviet Union. He was born on September 10, 1946, in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Early Life and Education

Semen Gluzman was born into a Jewish family in Kyiv. He pursued his medical education at the Kyiv Medical Institute, where he specialized in psychiatry. During his studies, Gluzman became increasingly aware of the misuse of psychiatry in the Soviet Union, particularly the practice of diagnosing political dissidents with mental illnesses to justify their incarceration.

Career and Activism

After completing his education, Gluzman worked as a psychiatrist. However, his career took a significant turn when he refused to diagnose the dissident General Petro Grigorenko with a mental illness, a common tactic used by the Soviet authorities to silence opposition. This act of defiance led to Gluzman's arrest in 1972.

Imprisonment

Semen Gluzman was sentenced to seven years in a labor camp followed by three years of internal exile for his refusal to comply with the Soviet regime's demands. During his imprisonment, he continued to advocate for human rights and documented the abuse of psychiatry in the Soviet Union. His writings were smuggled out of the labor camp and published in the West, bringing international attention to the issue.

Post-Imprisonment Activities

After his release in 1982, Gluzman continued his work as a human rights activist. He co-founded the Ukrainian Psychiatric Association and served as its president. Gluzman also played a significant role in the World Psychiatric Association, where he worked to prevent the misuse of psychiatry for political purposes globally.

Legacy

Semen Gluzman's efforts have had a lasting impact on the field of psychiatry and human rights. He is widely recognized for his courage and dedication to exposing the abuse of psychiatry in the Soviet Union. His work has inspired many to continue the fight against the misuse of medical practices for political repression.

See Also

• Petro Grigorenko
• Ukrainian Psychiatric Association
• World Psychiatric Association
• Human rights in the Soviet Union