ST. PETERSBURG. May 11 (Interfax) - A constructive relationship between Russia and the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) had run its course by the time Russia left the ECHR's jurisdiction, and their separation was unavoidable, the head of the Main Department for International Legal Cooperation at the Russian Prosecutor General's Office Mikhail Vinogradov said.
"The ECHR has developed into a platform that grants awards in situations we already see as problems in our country. I have to say that, unfortunately, there were many examples of the kind. Thus, [...] our constructive relationship with the ECHR had really run its course. If the special military operation had not begun and the Council of Europe had not taken unfriendly steps, I have little doubt that it would still have happened very soon," Vinogradov said at the St. Petersburg International Legal Forum on Thursday.
He added that Russia's break with the ECHR "was unavoidable."
The Russian law enforcement system and judiciary are able to execute ECHR functions, Vinogradov said.
"Actually, I disagree with those who are asking what will happen to the applications filed [with the ECHR]. Nothing terrible will happen, there will simply be no awards given. The Russian Federation has long since established a sustainable system of law enforcement and judicial agencies. There are no impediments to filing appeals according to the standard process: there is a prosecutor to turn to whenever rights are breached, and it's always possible to challenge a decision in court, which will hold a hearing and pronounce a fair judgment," Vinogradov said.
He also mentioned positive moments in Russia's interaction with the European Court.
"We have to admit that our experience is quite ample. A lot of legislative amendments have been made, and we should not deny that they were often triggered by ECHR judgments or other agreements and standards of the Council of Europe," Vinogradov said.
He gave examples of laws on compensation for long delays in enforcing court orders or faltering legal proceedings, and greater space for inmates in detention facilities.
"It was not the ECHR that led us to such conclusions. It merely stated them," Vinogradov said.