Catherine Ashton on party registration in Russia
The spokesperson of Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"The High Representative notes with concern that today yet another independent political party - the Party of People’s Freedom - was denied registration in the Russian Federation. The denied registration attempt today is one among a series of such cases in recent years.

The difficulties faced by political parties in registering for elections effectively constrain political competition in Russia, reduce the choice available to its electorate and show that there are real obstacles to political pluralism in the country. The cumbersome registration procedures in Russia have been criticized in the April 12 ruling of the European Court of Human Rights.

Political pluralism is a cornerstone of democracy and modern society, and a source of political legitimacy."

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