Europe’s watchdog for local democracy has raised concerns over plans submitted to the Russian Parliament that would bypass the electorate by placing mayors under central control.
Under proposals being considered in the Russian Parliament, or Duma, regional governors would be given the option of eliminating the post of mayor in their provincial capitals. The plan is being presented as a move to ease bureaucracy, but critics claim that it is part of a wider Kremlin campaign to undermine local autonomy.
The Congress of the Council of Europe, which was set up to safeguard strong local government across the continent, is worried about the “danger” that the proposal poses to democracy in Russia.
The issue of democracy and human rights in Russia was raised during the Congress’ Autumn session. Congress President Halvdan Skard made a special visit to the offices of Novaya Gazeta, to lay flowers for Anna Politkovskaya, whose murder has raised questions about press freedom in Russia. Ms Politkovskaya, acclaimed for bringing the war in Chechnya to an international audience, was shot dead in the lift of her Moscow apartment block last month.
“We are here because we care about the freedom of expression, which cannot be shut down by bullets,” Mr Skard told Ms Politkovskaya's colleagues.
Manchester Councillor Keith Whitmore was present on behalf of the UK delegation to the Congress. “It would have been wrong to be representative of a body which upholds democratic and human rights values and not to have made such a visit," he said. "Of course, a key part of this involves valuing press freedom which is paramount in any open society.”
Acknowledgement: All available information and documents in "Justice For North Caucasus Group" is provided for the "fair use". There should be no intention for ill-usage of any sort of any published item for commercial purposes and in any way or form. JFNC is a nonprofit group and has no intentions for the distribution of information for commercial or advantageous gain. At the same time consideration is ascertained that all different visions, beliefs, presentations and opinions will be presented to visitors and readers of all message boards of this site. Providing, furnishing, posting and publishing the information of all sources is considered a right to freedom of opinion, speech, expression, and information while at the same time does not necessarily reflect, represent, constitute, or comprise the stand or the opinion of this group. If you have any concerns contact us directly at:
eagle@JusticeForNorthCaucasus.com
