These days, the Baring Vostok trial is nearing its end. Since its beginning in February 2021, the French and European business communities in Russia have repeatedly expressed their solidarity and support for Philippe Delpal and his family as well as for the other defendants. Philippe Delpal was arrested and then imprisoned in the context of the judicial enquiry over a commercial dispute involving the investment fund where he was working. He has been under house arrest since August 2019.

The French and European business communities are concerned about the deterioration of the business climate due to the criminal justice intervention to the case with all the features of a commercial dispute. The investigation may have serious consequences for the freedom of entrepreneurs. This position has been repeatedly reaffirmed in court hearings, where representatives of the French and European community have constantly been present. Nevertheless, the qualification of the case as criminal is surprising. Today, the prosecutor has asked for a 5-year suspended sentence for Philippe Delpal and for 4 to 6 years for the other defendants with their sentences also to be suspended.

We continue to believe in a positive outcome of this case in court. The verdict is expected in the next few weeks. We sincerely hope that Philippe Delpal and the other defendants will regain their full freedom as soon as possible, including their freedom of movement. Such an outcome will contribute to an important improvement of the business climate.