Back Council of Europe Secretary General rejects so-called ‘referenda’ in occupied Ukrainian territories

Council of Europe Secretary General rejects so-called ‘referenda’ in occupied Ukrainian territories

The Secretary General of the 46-nation Council of Europe, Marija Pejčinović Burić, has today made the following statement:

“The announced so-called ‘referenda’ in Ukrainian territories that are occupied by Russian forces is a further escalation of the conflict and the ongoing violation of Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

“Such ‘referenda’, held at gunpoint by occupying forces and in disrespect of basic democratic principles, can neither be accepted nor recognised.

“We reject this mockery of democracy and reaffirm our commitment to the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of our member state Ukraine within its internationally-recognised borders.

“I call once again for an end to the conflict and for a return to peace in Europe.”


 See also Secretary General's statement of 15 september


 PACE President condemns Russia’s attempt to annex Ukrainian territory, reiterates support for Ukraine


 President of the Congress, Leendert Verbeek: "So-called referendums organised in the occupied territories of Ukraine are a denial of the rule of law, human rights and democracy"

Secretary General Strasbourg 21 September 2022
  • Diminuer la taille du texte
  • Augmenter la taille du texte
  • Imprimer la page