Nov 2, 2011

Dutch journalist was refused by Russian authorities to observe the Russian legislative elections

THE HAGUE, THE NETHERLANDS - The Dutch journalist Alexander Munninghoff was refused by Russian authorities to observe the Russian legislative elections in December, the Dutch news portal NOS reported on Tuesday.

Munninghoff didn't get permission, despite seven earlier elections observation missions he took part in in Russia and over 20 missions in other parts of the world.


The Dutch journalist was critical about the Russian political system in the past. In the eighties Munninghoff was put on a black list. "But this is probably not the reason why Russia blocked me, otherwise they would have refused me before." Munninghoff told Dutch media.

The actual reason wasn't given by Russian authorities, despite a demand for explanation by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Munninghoff added.

The other three Dutch observers that were selected by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) are allowed to observe the elections.

The OSCE is the world's largest security-oriented intergovernmental organization, operating under a United Nations Charter. Its mandate includes issues such as arms control, human rights, freedom of the press and fair elections.

The Netherlands will not select another candidate that could replace Munninghoff.

Editor: Fang Yang
Source: Xinhuanet