John Chandler: “last March, I had the opportunity to meet with human rights groups, legal experts, media representatives, and others…”

“last March, I had the opportunity to meet with human rights groups, legal experts, media representatives, and others concerning the situation on the ground in Russia. I learned firsthand that Russia is enduring a difficult transition to what hopefully will become a modern, fully democratic nation. While there have been many positive developments in Russian society over the past decade, particularly with regard to the freedoms that average Russian citizens now enjoy, there are disturbing signs that Russia under President Vladimir Putin may be slipping back to its old authoritarian ways. My primary concern is with the rule of law. Recent events have called into question Russia's unequivocal commitment to a transparent judicial system, defendants' rights, and the presumption of innocence within the Russian legal system. The case of Mr. Khodorkovsky has raised concerns from legal experts, human rights groups, and the media that his trial may have more to do with his opposition to President Putin's policies rather than the crimes for which he is accused.”