In a message of congratulations sent to Russian Human Rights Ombudsman Vladimir Lukin, Mr Medvedev said:
“This Institute’s founding was a logical step on the road to developing democracy in our country, forming an active civil society and establishing effective protection of human rights. It is pleasing to say that in a relatively short period you have succeeded in establishing constructive dialogue between the various public and human rights organisations and state organisations. Most importantly, this principled approach to your work has enabled you to provide real help to many people in defending their rights.
I hope that your efforts will continue to be as timely and productive and will, overall, help to affirm in Russia the values of freedom, justice and democracy”.