Some bits from the latest report from the Committee on the Honouring of Obligations and Commitments by Member States of the Council of Europe:
21. Therefore, we are concerned about the increasing numbers of allegations that the authorities are reducing these freedoms and that democracy is receding in the country. The allegations have mostly centred on the freedom of the media, freedom of assembly and increased pressure from the law enforcement agencies for political purposes.
24. The role of the State Security Service, and especially its Head, Mr Khoroshkovskyi, is of concern....
25. A number of NGOs have complained to us that protest actions had been broken up, and their activists harassed by the police and other state law enforcement agencies, which, if corroborated, would be of concern....
31. A clear and unwavering respect for democratic freedoms and rights has been one of the main achievements in Ukraine’s democratic development in recent years. We are therefore concerned about the increasing number of allegations that democratic freedoms, such as freedom of assembly, freedom of expression and freedom of the media have come under pressure in recent months. Any regression in the respect for and protection of these rights would be unacceptable for the Assembly....
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PACE has a long way to go to restore its credibility on issue of democracy and rule of law. It failure to hold to account former Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko back in 2007 is a case to answer for. PEACe failed to protect the hu8man rights of Ukrainian citizens and the compliance of its constitution. PACE should have insisted that Yushchenko seek and abide by the ruling of Ukraine's Constitutional Court. Further PAQCE should have voiced its concern about the direct political interference of Ukraine's President in the independence and operation of Ukraine's Constitutional Court. Yushchenko should have been condemned for his actions.
Instead of speaking out against this abuse of office PACE remained selectively silent whilst Ukraine's democratic rights were being denied and abused.
To a large extent the events of today link back to the events of 2006 and 2007
PACE should apologize to Ukraine for its failure to act.
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