Lukin, one of the founders of the Yabloko party and Russia's former ambassador to the US, remarked that the 21st century belongs to those countries that "are set not on power itself, but on concern for the welfare of their citizens." The candidate pointed to the positive experience of Sweden as a country with developed democracy and high living standards.
He recalled that it was Sweden that early in the 19th century established the institution of the ombudsman. In Lukin's view, this is evidence that the effectively functioning institution of the human rights commissioner in the country has a positive impact on the development of society in general.
"The history of many countries, including Russia, shows that the state is strong only when it observes the interests not of a narrow circle of persons, but of all society in general," the candidate said.
"It is only in a democratic country that citizens can participate in the day-to-day running of the state, and protect the country against threats, including that of terrorism," he emphasized.
Lukin recalled that the rights of Russians are spelled out in the existing constitution. But not all of them are observed, and "need protecting throughout," he noted.
"Working in this sphere (as the human rights commissioner) appeals to me," Lukin concluded.
