In addition, the EP deputies suggested that the European Union adopt a strategy to stimulate liberal democracy in Russia.
According to TASS, the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament (EP) suggested that the EU prepare for non-recognition of the results of the elections to the State Duma, which are scheduled for September 17-19, if Brussels considers that they were held in violation of international norms.
“The [committee] members concluded that the EU should be prepared to refrain from recognizing the Russian parliament if the 2021 parliamentary elections are deemed to have violated democratic principles and international norms,” the report on Russia said Thursday.
The text of the document was approved by 56 committee members, nine people voted against, and five more abstained. EP reports and resolutions are advisory in nature and are not binding on other EU institutions. The recognition of foreign political institutions by the EP also does not carry any legal burden.
The EP deputies suggested that the European Union adopt a strategy to stimulate liberal democracy in Russia. In their opinion, this policy should include “methods of encouragement to strengthen democratic tendencies within Russia”. The MPs also believe that the EU should create an alliance with the United States and other like-minded states “to counter the efforts of Russia and China to weaken democracy in the world and destabilize the European political order.” The actions of this association should include the application of sanctions, the fight against illegal financial flows and the support of human rights defenders. In addition, the MEPs offer to continue to provide support to the countries participating in the Eastern Partnership program to curb the alleged “Russian aggression” and promote “European reforms and fundamental freedoms”.