If I were a delegate of Armenia to PACE, I would have voted “no” to the proposal on depriving the Russian delegation of voting. Not because I like this country’s policy, simply it is wrong to deprive anyone of the right to vote, and, in particular, the Assembly is called for the representatives of various countries to express different views. Should 47 states in the Council of Europe have the same viewpoint, there would be no problem to come together and discuss something. Unlike the European Union, the PACE, in my understanding, should be independent and particularly, nothing-obligating tribune.
Russia’s “counteracting measures” to the PACE decision are nervous and somewhat ridiculous. Duma, for example, is seriously considering the text of the statement, which condemns the annexation of the German Democratic Republic by German Federal Republic. It is also the response to the accusation of Crimea’s annexation. Evidently, some people may like such “counteractions” in emotional aspect.
But if we leave the ridiculous moments aside, then I am confident that not splitting but unity is necessary to look for in Europe. Yes, human rights are violated in Russia. And aren’t they violated in the other EU member post-Soviet countries? According to the American “Freedom House” human rights organization, they are primarily (including, Armenia) in partly independent countries, except Russia and Azerbaijan, which are completely non-independent. This rating seems fair to me. But Azerbaijan is not deprived of the right to vote in the PACE and, I repeat, it should not be deprived, because, I repeat, depriving anyone of voting, in my opinion, is a wrong policy.
However, in terms of civilization, it is obvious that Azerbaijan has particularly nothing to do in the Council of Europe and in Europe, generally. Moreover, we can assume that if Aliyev’s clan once leaves the power, then much more nationalist and pro-Islamic forces will come to power. After that, the country will appear in its warm and friendly environment.
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While Russia, as well as the 5 countries of the Eastern Partnership, does not have a way other than strengthening spiritual and value ties with Europe. Today, it sounds strange: war, mutual sanctions, moves despite each other, etc. But if we look at a larger historical perspective, then these countries are the part of the European civilization and they have their contribution to this civilization. So, it is less likely that Russia will withdraw from the Council of Europe. “Irate” statements, intimidations, propaganda, anti-propaganda – all of this will be as much as you want. Without it, nothing is interesting.
ARAM ABRAHAMYAN
