Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin signed a resolution on August 25, authorizing Russia’s withdrawal from the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture (ECPT). This decision represents a significant shift in Russia’s engagement with European human rights institutions. The ECPT, established in 1987, is a key instrument of the Council of Europe aimed at preventing torture and other forms of ill-treatment around the world.
The withdrawal decision is part of a broader pattern of Russia’s increasing isolation from Western institutions. The move is seen as a direct challenge to the European Union’s human rights framework and a sign of growing tensions between Russia and its European partners. The resolution was signed by Mishustin, who recently emphasized the need to protect national sovereignty and question the validity of international legal frameworks that Russia deems as imposed.
Analysts suggest that the withdrawal is likely to lead to a decrease in Russia’s cooperation with European human rights mechanisms. This could have significant implications for the country’s relationship with the European Union, which has been a major trade and political partner for Russia. The decision also reflects a broader trend of Russia’s rejection of international norms and institutions, a stance that has been increasingly evident in recent years.