Medvedev backs voluntary ban on use of nationalism theme in elections

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev supports a voluntary moratorium on the use of the national theme for pre-electoral campaigning and warned that xenophobic attitude will be punished according to the law, ITAR-TASS reports.

Medvedev noted that xenophobia is a big problem indeed, not only for Russia but also for a wide range of states. Xenophobic attitude gets worse during complicated historic periods. Modern life has become more complicated due to major economic problems. People tend to blame immigrants without reason.

The president clarified that discontent is justfully caused by immigrants violating local laws and sticking to their traditions instead. He expressed support for the view of Ilyas Umakhanov, Vice-Speaker of the Federation Council, who had offered a voluntary ban for use of nationalistic slogans.

Umakhanov said that xenophobic attitude and intolerance in the society are high. Some may try to improve their rating. It would be nice to declare such moratorium.