266_33 substantive_scope 33. The right to freedom of assembly is a fundamental right in a democratic society and, like the right to freedom of expression, is one of the foundations of such a society. Thus, it should not be interpreted restrictively. As such this right covers both private meetings and meetings in public thoroughfares as well as static meetings and public processions; in addition, it can be exercised by individuals and those organising the assembly. States must not only safeguard the right to assemble peacefully but also refrain from applying unreasonable indirect restrictions upon that 8 BUDAHÁZY v. HUNGARY JUDGMENT right (see Djavit An v. Turkey, no. 20652/92, §§ 56-57, ECHR 2003-III; and Kudrevičius, cited above, § 91).