25/07/2012 (Agence Europe) - Dialogue on human rights. The EU and Russia held their 15th round of human rights consultations in Brussels on 20 July, the EU announced on 24 July. The two parties discussed the laws recently passed by Russia that impact on civil society (freedom to demonstrate, freedom of expression) and also the rule of law, reform of the judicial system and implementation of European court of Human Rights decisions. The EU raised a number of concerns related to specific human rights issues in Russia, including issues pertaining to freedom of expression and freedom of the media including online media, LGBT rights, freedom of religion or belief, and also continuing intimidation and impunity. Both sides agreed to provide further clarification on individual cases of concern and explored ways of improving their cooperation in international fora. The next meeting is scheduled for autumn 2012. The EU hopes it will take place in Moscow, as these consultations have so far only been held in the EU. (CG/transl/rt)