🗣️ Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Michael O’Flaherty, in a memorandum following his visit to Ukraine in March 2025, emphasized that martial law is not a justification for persecution, restriction of citizens’ rights, or suppression of freedom of speech.
Source: PRYAMYI
⚖️ O’Flaherty expressed concern over cases of intimidation of journalists, lawyers, civil society representatives, and political opponents who criticize the authorities. According to him, the introduction of so-called “personal sanctions” against certain Ukrainian citizens without due judicial process may violate their fundamental rights.
🚫 The Commissioner noted that restrictions on freedom of movement, expression, and property rights imposed on Ukrainian citizens are unacceptable without clear and transparent mechanisms. He called on Ukrainian authorities to thoroughly investigate reports of political persecution and to prevent the misuse of mobilization as a tool of pressure.
📺 O’Flaherty paid particular attention to the media situation. He mentioned the creation of the “United News” TV marathon and the European Commission’s recommendation to gradually restore an independent and pluralistic media environment.
📜 Despite understanding the conditions of war, the Commissioner urged Ukraine to adhere to the European Convention on Human Rights and, as soon as signs of peace emerge, to promptly restore democratic mechanisms.
🕊️ “Ukraine has the right to self-defense, but even during war, restrictions must comply with international obligations and the principles of the rule of law,” O’Flaherty concluded.
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