In Ukraine a new law on the terms of peaceful assembly is in the works. But critics say the proposed legislation would make it difficult for various groups to have the right to hold protests. Our correspondents in Kyiv have the story.
A variety of protests occur throughout Ukraine every day - against developers, against new laws, against unfair treatment by the police. However, the number of demonstrations could decrease if a new law gets passed. Human Rights activists are saying this new law would make it difficult for organizing rallies and demonstrations.
[Vladimir Chemerys, Human Rights Activist]:)
"If this draft becomes law, we will simply turn into a police state."
One student union sees a problem in the new law because it delays protests.
[Yuriy Lebedev, Student Union Member]:)
"They're just trying to ban protests. And almost always achieve it. That is why it is simply desirable not to warn them too long in advance. The later the better."
In addition, the draft does not provide a realistic time frame in which one has time to appeal if the decision to ban a protest is made by authorities.
Human rights activists in Ukraine say that with the 39th article of the Constitution in place, which guarantees freedom of assembly, a special law is not needed at all.
[Vladimir Chemerys, Human Rights Activist]:
"For Europeans it is normal, but [not for us], as any hitch in the law will be used against us."
On October 16, the Council of Europe evaluated the draft and made a few suggestions that now need to be incorporated.
In the near future, the Human Rights Committee of the Parliament of Ukraine will consider the recommendations of the Venice Commission.
And if they are not taken into account, human rights activists are threatening to hold protests.
NTD, Kyiv, Ukraine
