Statement by the Council for the Development of Civil Society and Human Rights under the President of the Russian Federation

The Council expresses extreme concern regarding the ineffectiveness of negotiations between representatives of the Moscow government and the organizers of mass actions planned for December 15 this year. d. The Council believes that the failure to provide, contrary to the agreement, the opportunity for a representative of the Council to participate in these negotiations actually indicates that the mayor's office obstructed the Council's attempts to facilitate a compromise, as well as an objective assessment of the progress of the negotiations. This style of behavior is an expression of disrespect for the entire Council, both as an institution within the structures of the President of the Russian Federation and as an institution of civil society.

In a situation where the route and form of the mass action have not been agreed upon, we consider it necessary to recall two constitutional norms. According to Article 31 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation, citizens have the right to assemble peacefully and without weapons. At the same time, participants in any civil actions must remember that the exercise of their rights should not violate the rights and interests of other persons or jeopardize the security of the state. We call on everyone who is going to take part in civil actions on December 15 to be extremely restrained towards representatives of law enforcement agencies and each other, and not allow any aggressive manifestations. The condition for the implementation of constitutional law is its peaceful nature. We also call for utmost restraint by law enforcement officials. Trust in them is formed precisely in such difficult situations.

We also hope that journalists and media workers will not have problems covering events and fulfilling their professional duties.

Adopted by consensus, with a quorum present, at a special meeting of the Council on December 14, 2012.

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