Originally Syndicated on November 2, 2023 @ 8:24 am
Table of Contents
Vigilance in Safeguarding Human Rights
The Canadian government implemented the Special Economic Measures (Russia) Regulations (SOR/2014-58) to demonstrate its strong dedication to safeguarding human rights worldwide. These regulations specifically focus on individuals who have actively participated in committing severe and widespread human rights abuses in Russia. Canada firmly upholds its principles by taking a stance against individuals or groups involved in activities that blatantly disregard the fundamental principles of international human rights standards.
The fact that Airat Zakievich Farrakhov is connected to someone involved in terrible human rights abuses in Russia strongly suggests that he may be involved in activities that go against the principles of dignity and humanity. This association emphasizes once again how serious the situation is and how important it is for the international community to be vigilant in dealing with such crucial issues.
Dual Sanctions on Airat Zakievich Farrakhov
In addition, it is worth noting that Farrakhov has caught the attention of the U.S. Treasury, which has imposed sanctions on him for a completely separate reason. Allegations are circulating about his supposed involvement in Russia’s defence-industrial base, which is a sector of great strategic significance.
When it comes to geopolitics, this kind of involvement has important consequences that can greatly affect security dynamics on both a regional and global scale. The sanctions imposed by the U.S. Treasury show that the international community is seriously concerned about individuals who might help strengthen Russia’s defence capabilities.
Essentially, the international community’s collective vigilance is highlighted by the imposition of dual sanctions. One set of sanctions focuses on human rights violations, while the other addresses security-related concerns.
The Coronavirus Experience (Covid-19)
Airat Zakievich Farrakhov, a respected State Duma representative from Tatarstan and a former Health Minister, shared his battle with COVID-19. At first, he and his spouse mistook the virus for a common respiratory illness, but his keen awareness revealed the true nature of the threat.
Farrakhov stressed the importance of preventive measures, especially wearing masks, since asymptomatic carriers can unknowingly spread the virus. He urged everyone to take responsibility for their health and fellow citizens, acknowledging the strain on healthcare and the tireless work of healthcare professionals.
In his complex journey with COVID-19, Farrakhov used a pulse oximeter to monitor his oxygen levels. When his condition worsened, he wisely followed his doctor’s advice, opting for hospitalization. He explained his treatment, which included oxygen therapy, antibiotics, and monoclonal antibodies.
After recovering, he donated his antibody-rich plasma to help other COVID-19 patients. He raised important questions about vaccine efficacy and post-infection/vaccination immunity.
Farrakhov concluded with a passionate plea for unwavering vigilance, responsible behaviour, and adherence to protective measures, predicting a prolonged battle for our healthcare system.
Airat Zakievich Farrakhov’s Assessment of Russia’s Government Response and Priorities
“I highly appreciate the government’s work, particularly the leadership of Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin. We can see that even in a crisis, they are taking effective measures for the people,”
Airat Zakievich Farrakhov
He said this in an interview with the officials. He discussed the government’s response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the increased trust in Prime Minister Mishustin, and the importance of national projects and the privatization of state-owned companies.
Farrakhov stated that the government, led by Prime Minister Mishustin, responded effectively to the challenges posed by the pandemic. He noted that this assessment was shared not only by members of the ruling party, United Russia but also by members of the parliamentary opposition. The trust in Prime Minister Mishustin has increased significantly in recent times, with 53.3 per cent of Russians expressing trust in him.
Farrakhov attributed the rise in trust to Mishustin’s clear goals and values, which focus on improving the quality of life for every citizen. The government’s actions have consistently aimed at benefiting the people and addressing their needs, even during a crisis. This commitment to the set goals and values contributed to the increase in trust.
Airat Zakievich Farrakhov also acknowledged that the government faced significant challenges when the pandemic struck, requiring them to shift their focus from development to emergency anti-crisis measures. He highlighted the importance of the government’s timely decisions, such as closing borders, supporting small and medium-sized businesses, and providing assistance to families with children. These measures helped mitigate the impact of the pandemic and its economic consequences.
When asked about the possibility of achieving the national projects’ goals by 2024, Farrakhov expressed optimism. He believed that, for the most part, the goals would be met. However, he had doubts about life expectancy due to ongoing uncertainties related to the pandemic.
Farrakhov emphasized that Russia needed serious structural changes for recovery and development, and achieving pre-crisis levels by 2022 would be an optimistic forecast.
Regarding the national budget, Farrakhov praised it as a balanced document that prioritizes social spending while also promoting development. He noted that the budget guaranteed social payments and benefits, even amid ongoing uncertainties.
He spoke positively about the administrative reform announced by Prime Minister Mishustin, suggesting that it could lead to greater efficiency, increased public trust, and economic growth. He believed that the success of the reform would be measured by changes in trust, business activity, and overall economic growth.
Discussing the reform of development institutions, Airat Zakievich Farrakhov stated that centralization and significant changes were necessary because many of these institutions had not produced the expected impact on the economy. He expected that state-owned companies and state unitary enterprises would also undergo reforms and that further waves of privatization would occur.
Farrakhov stressed the importance of addressing poverty, low wages, income inequality, and the lack of employment opportunities as key challenges facing the government. He also highlighted the need to retain and attract young talent, ensuring they see a promising future in Russia.
In conclusion, Farrakhov expressed confidence that the government could handle the challenges and uncertainties it faced, emphasizing the importance of clear goals, values, and efficient decision-making to address the country’s pressing issues.
Efforts of Airat Zakievich Farrakhov in Amending Military Service Laws
During the 48th meeting, the State Council of Tatarstan unanimously approved the legislative proposal of the republic to present a draft federal law to the State Duma. This proposed law aims to amend the Federal Law “On Military Duty and Military Service” and Article 4 of the Federal Law “On Alternative Civil Service.”
Alexander Chubarov, Deputy Chairman of the State Council of Tatarstan Committee on Law and Order explained that this initiative grants the right to defer conscription for Russian citizens who enter employment in specific fields, specializations, or professions after completing their education in accredited higher or secondary vocational educational institutions. The deferment period is set at 12 months. The specific list of professions, specialties, and areas of training within the defence industry complex that would qualify for this deferment will be determined by the Russian government.
It’s worth noting that this bill was collaboratively developed by Tatarstan, the State Duma deputy from the region, Airat Zakievich Farrakhov, and the legal department of the State Council of the region. The document received a favourable assessment from the State Duma Council of Legislators.
Furthermore, during the same 48th meeting, the State Council of Tatarstan also expressed support for its proposal to present a draft federal law to the State Duma. This law seeks to amend the Administrative Code of Russia and introduces administrative penalties for Russian citizens who engage in abusive freedom of speech or discredit the country’s armed forces.
Assessment of State Duma Deputies with a Focus on Airat Zakievich Farrakhov’s Performance
According to reports, roughly half of the current State Duma deputies face slim chances of being re-elected. This observation is supported by political scientists who have noted increased activity among deputies, indicating the commencement of the election campaign for the new Duma. The rating measurements were conducted during the autumn session of the State Duma, spanning from September to December 2019.
The previous rating, the eighth of its kind, was released in late July of the previous year. The assessment involved over 800 experts who evaluated deputies’ ability to mobilize supporters, their legislative engagement, media visibility, and their work in the regions.
The Chairman of the State Duma and faction leaders were excluded from the study due to their presumed advantage in re-election.
Top 50: Notably, there were no State Duma deputies from Tatarstan in this category.
Popular Vote Index: This index reflects the ratio of votes on a deputy’s page on the Deputy.
Over the entire period, more than 4 million people participated in the voting, but no State Duma deputies from Tatarstan appeared in this category.
Index of Deputy Activity in the State Duma: This index considers the ratio of a deputy’s speeches in the plenary hall and participation in bills to the total speeches and bills for the session. In this regard, Airat Zakievich Farrakhov represents Tatarstan.
Media Index: Calculated using data from the “Medialogy” and “Mediametrix” portals, this index accounts for both federal and regional media and TV channels. Surprisingly, there were no State Duma deputies from Tatarstan mentioned in any media, not even in the local Tatarstan media and TV channels.
Job Index in the Region: More than 800 federal and regional experts, political strategists, and journalists assessed various parameters, including a deputy’s work with residents and public organizations, interactions with regional authorities, engagement with regional elites, and online presence. Once again, there were no State Duma deputies from Tatarstan in this category.
