92000E2557

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2557/00

by Camilo Nogueira Román (Verts/ALE) to the Council

(31 July 2000)

Subject: Compulsory curfew imposed by Russia in Chechnya

The compulsory curfew which has once again been imposed by the Russian authorities in Chechnya is proof of the fact that the terrible war in that country is not yet over. In response to this state of affairs, what action is the European Union intending to take with a view to re-establishing the Chechen people's national democratic rights which have been withdrawn by Russia?

Joint answer to Written Questions E-2557/00 and E-2634/00

(16 November 2000)

Following the Feira European Council meeting in June 2000, the European Union undertook a review of the overall situation in Russia. Subsequently, decisions were taken in order for the Union to assist in the promotion of democracy, the rule of law and a market-oriented economy. Such is the basis on which a strong and fruitful long-term relationship with Russia must stand. The Union reiterated that the development of such a relationship with all of Russia, including Chechnya, presupposes the sharing of common values, in particular respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

From the outset of the crisis in the Chechen Republic of the Russian Federation, the Council has been quite clear that only a political solution can bring about a lasting settlement there. To this end, the Union has been a steadfast advocate of respect for the human rights of all people in Chechnya. At the same time, the Council attaches great importance to the principle of the territorial integrity of the Russian Federation. In pursuit of its long-term policy of constructive engagement, the Union has consistently pressed Russia to meet its commitments.

The Union calls on Russia to comply with the demands of the international community concerning Chechnya. These include avoiding excessive use of force and any spillover of the conflict, pursuit of a political process including elected Chechen representatives, effective independent investigation into human rights abuses, cooperation with the Council of Europe, support for the OSCE Assistance Group in implementing its full mandate and assuring the safe delivery by NGOs of humanitarian aid.