ARTIFICIAL DEMOCRACY IS MORE DANGEROUS THAN NO DEMOCRACY AT ALL

/PanARMENIAN.Net/
09.06.2009 20:58 GMT+04:00

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ "Civiliatas" foundation has today organized a
discussion devoted to electoral rights in Armenia. The meeting was
attended by representatives of political forces and civil society
organizations. In his opening speech, foundation chair, ex-Foreign
Minister Vardan Oskanyan stressed the serious need for raising public
awareness of the causes that prevent conducting free elections in
Armenia".

Oskanyan distinguished three basic principles creating more problems
for the country and preventing citizens from exercising their
right to vote freely. "First, it is necessary to have a developed
electoral institution, contributing to the country’s prosperity." The
second requirement, according to ex-Foreign Minister, is developed
democracy. "Artificial democracy is more dangerous than no democracy
at all," he stressed.

As a third requirement for free and fair elections, Osakanyan
pointed out the need for mutual responsibility between authorities
and opposition. "Authorities are required to be more patient and
undertake steps towards organizing free elections in Armenia,"
Foundation Chairman said at the end of the meeting.