[Brussels, 10 August 2012] The EWL issued today the following Statement to the attention of the government of Russia. Copies of the Statement are being delivered to Russian embassies throughout Europe.
EWL Statement to Russian Government
The litmus test of working democracy in any country is that the artists have the freedom of expression even when they criticise, make a satyr or openly mock official pillars of social and political power, such as the dominant church or the president of the state.
We want to believe that Russia has a real potential for becoming a democratic country.
We call on all relevant authorities of Russia, to pass this simple test. We are sure that you want the world to believe that democracy in Russia is not an empty word, that you are strong enough to ensure real freedom of artistic expression in your country.
The European Women’s Lobby (EWL), the largest women’s NGO umbrella organisation in EU, uniting more than 2000 women’s human rights organisations in 30 countreis, calls on you to: Free Pussy Riot NOW!
