OSCE/ODIHR deems lawful Ukrainian govt. demand to free buildings seized by opposition
KYIV. Dec 6 (Interfax) - OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Director Janez Lenarcic has called the demand of the Ukrainian authorities that the administrative buildings seized by demonstrators in Kyiv be vacated lawful.
He said at a press briefing in Kyiv on Friday during a meeting of the OSCE Ministerial Council that the demand was fully consistent with the acceptable restrictions on the freedom of assembly.
Lenarcic said that the buildings served a purpose and were not meant specifically for exercising the freedom of assembly. There is enough space in Kyiv, including Independence Square, for exercising the freedom of assembly, he noted.
Therefore, the demand of the authorities to vacate the buildings which have a different function is absolutely legitimate, the OSCE/ODIHR director said.
