PACE adopts resolution on referendum in member-states

Strasbourg. 22 January. REPORT.AZ/ At its winter session the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has adopted a resolution on the renewal of principles that ensure fair conduction of referendums in member-states.

Western European Bureau of Report News Agency informs that the resolution recommends to review the experience of the member-states regarding conduction of referendums since the adoption of the Venice Commission in 2007 at the request of the PACE, and, in particular, make changes in three issues. First of all, changes are strongly recommended for the rules regarding a referendum to ensure voters use quality information in connection with the development of the Internet and social media. The second issue to be put on the agenda the rules that provide for the restriction of control of the government campaigns and organizations, including to impose sanctions in case of violence. Finally, it is recommended to exchange experiences among the member-states to study the ways to ensure participation of citizens in democratic debates before and after the referendum.