Russian State Duma passes bill to scrap requirement that Moscow notify Council of Europe about martial law

Russia’s State Duma has passed the third and final reading of a bill that would eliminate the requirement that Moscow notify the secretary general of the Council of Europe when it imposes or lifts martial law or a state of emergency.

The draft legislation was submitted by Vladimir Putin in August. Once approved by the Federation Council and signed by the president, it will become law.

Under current law, Russia is required to notify the secretaries-general of both the UN and the Council of Europe when it deviates from its obligations under international treaties by restricting the rights and freedoms of Russians. This requirement is in line with the European Convention on Human Rights.