Russia's Final Yes to Human Rights Court's Reform
After many years of blockade, Russia finally approved the ratification of Protocol 14 to the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights (ECHR), which paves the way for court reform. On 15 January 2010, the State Duma finally supported the a long-delayed reform of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasburg, boosting an institution often critical of Moscow. This is a success for the implementation of human rights within the Council of Europe. With 392 votes in favour and 56 opposed, reversing its previous rejection of the protocol in 2006, the Duma vote seems to have been possible because Russia saws its interests preserved by the Court's reform. Indeed, one Russian representative will court among the judges and one among the group of experts on the judgments' implementation.
The decision was a relief to the Palais de l'Europe in Strasburg. «By joining the other 46 member states, Russia is sending a strong signal of its commitment to Europe,» declared the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, and it «reinforce its vital role in defending the human rights of individual citizens throughout Europe».
Documentation
- Russia ratifies Protocol 14 on human rights court reform
RT, 15 January 2010 - Russia ratifies key European court reform
Swissinfo, 15 January 2010 - Russia: Ratification of Protocol Promotes Justice
News by Human Rights Watch, 15 January 2010 - The Council of Europe welcomes approval, for ratification, by the Russian State Duma of Protocol No. 14 to the European Convention on Human Rights
Statement by Micheline Calmy-Rey, Chairperson of the Committee of Ministers and Lluís Maria de Puig, President of the Parliamentary Assembly, 16 January 2010 - Russian approval of Protocol 14 - a commitment to Europe
Statement by Secretary General of the Council of Europe, 16 January 2010
Further information
- Protocol No. 14 to the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, amending the control system of the Convention
On the website of the Counil of Europe - European Court of Human Rights
Update: 09.02.2010
