International IDEA condemns Russia's 'election' in Ukraine's occupied territories as an assault on sovereignty and democracy

For the forthcoming 'election' on 15-17 March, the Russian authorities plan to open polling places in some regions of Ukraine, currently occupied and annexed by Russia.  

As has been underscored by the United Nations, the European Union and democratic nations across the globe, Russia’s actions gravely violate international law, the UN Charter and laws of Ukraine. Russia is once again assaulting Ukraine's sovereignty and the integrity of its democratic institutions.  

International IDEA condemns these actions and calls on the international community to stand firm in upholding Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity and its democratic institutions.