The members of the Public Chamber Council think it necessary to remind all members and representatives of political parties of the following. We are now at the point of the two federal election campaigns. It is unacceptable to use xenophobic, nationalistic and other extremist slogans and rhetoric, to use actions which incite national and religious discord and civil conflicts.

From the previous elections we know that excitement of political race causes cynical speculations from unscrupulous activists of electoral campaign in order to affect public opinion. They try to gain more votes addressing the most painful topics, such as listing nations, ‘responsible’ for the state problems, or presenting people of some republics of Russia or of a particular religion as ‘barbarians’ and ‘enemies of the state’. Initiators of such claims sow discord and intolerance within Russian society, which is extremely dangerous. Political race lasts several months, but its outcomes may last for a long time. As a result the atmosphere of trust between citizens of different ethnicity and religion may be deteriorated.

That is why we hope that Russian politicians on all levels shall demonstrate their commitment to the ideals of fair, legal and ethical competition. We are sure that the goal of positive political processes is to ensure civil unity of the multinational Russian people. The ideas of the all-Russia patriotism, preservation of ethnical and religious peace should lay the foundations of political programs of all parties. Representatives of civil society see neighbourly relations and mutual understanding between the people of different regions as the key factors of successful development of the country.

Nota Bene: the text of the Address is in its final revision. It was approved by the majority of the Public Chamber Council members