A group of students from Normal Community High School in the United States decided to complete a research project on Mikhail Khodorkovsky, after learning about his case in their Advanced Comparative Government class. They then presented their work at the Capital Forum on America’s Future at Illinois State University.

A small article summarising the students’ efforts to create awareness about the longest-serving political prisoner in modern Russia appeared on the local news website, The Pantagraph, catching the attention of Khodorkovsky’s son Pavel, who arranged a Skype call to thank the students for their efforts.

A student, Caitlin Slone, said the opportunity to connect with Pavel Khodorkovsky felt like a “reward” for the work they did. She was one of about 35 graduates and incoming seniors who interacted with Pavel last week.

“My students have become inspired by Mr Khodorkovsky’s case and want to do something about this. This is truly a great example of students getting the most of their education,” said teacher Jason Klokkenga.

During the call Pavel explained that public opinion has changed over the decade of his father’s imprisonment and polls now show approximately 65 per cent of Russians believe his father should be released unconditionally. He added that he doesn’t believe replacing President Putin would automatically solve Russia’s problems. There needs to be a movement towards democracy and a fair judicial system, he argued.

Mikhail Khodorkovsky is scheduled to be released in October 2014, although given the history of unlawful and absurd judicial farce that cannot be guaranteed. “It’s still a long time away, but it’s a new set of hopes” Pavel told the students.