Can Russian Citizens Influence Public Decision-Making? An Evaluation against the Background of Article 25 of the ICCPR with Some Comparative Observations

In the context of international participatory standards, this article attempts to explore whether the contemporary legal system of the Russian Federation allows substantive public participation.

The answer to this question is yes but only if effective remedies to protect participatory rights would be developed. International standards are gradually being implemented in Russia regarding those modes or ways in which the citizens can publicly express their attitudes concerning political issues. Exercising the freedom of speech, assembly, and association in order to participate in public affairs are among such ways. Nonetheless, sometimes the dubious actions of public authorities, revealed in the workings of the highest Russian courts and international human rights organs, still reveal shortcomings in the implementation of participatory rights.