The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has decided to create a special platform for dialogue with representatives of the “Russian democratic forces in exile.” This decision was made unanimously through the adoption of a resolution prepared based on the report by Eerik-Niiles Kross from Estonia (ALDE).
This is reported by Kyiv24
Criteria for Participation and Objectives of the Platform
According to PACE, the new platform will include individuals who meet strict criteria, including possessing high moral qualities, sharing the values of the Council of Europe, unequivocally recognizing the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine, and actively working towards “regime change” in Russia.
Participants in the platform, whose list will be determined according to established requirements, will have the opportunity to engage in bilateral dialogue with the Assembly on current issues of mutual interest. Additionally, they will be able to participate in the meetings of specific committees during PACE sessions.
Support for Democratic Change and Accountability for Crimes
Parliamentarians emphasize that the establishment of such a platform will enhance the potential of Russian democratic forces to achieve sustainable democratic changes in Russia and will also help establish a strong and just peace in Ukraine. Furthermore, the platform aims to facilitate accountability for Russian entities for committed international crimes.
“PACE stated that it respects the dedication of those Russian human rights defenders, democratic forces, free media, and independent civil society who oppose the totalitarian and neo-imperialist Russian regime, fight for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, and support Ukraine, sometimes risking their lives and freedom.”
At the same time, the Assembly noted that Russian democratic forces, unlike Belarusian opposition figures, do not have a unified, cohesive political structure. In this regard, PACE calls on Russian groups and initiatives in exile to unite their efforts to support democratic changes in Russia, expose the crimes of the Russian regime, and assist the Ukrainian people.