Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2006-02-15-Speech-3-118"
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".
Mr President, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner had very much hoped to be with you to discuss Belarus. She has been intensely engaged in developing the Commission’s activities on Belarus since we took office and I am convinced she will not miss the opportunity to discuss Belarus with the Russian Foreign Minister at their meeting that is being held in Vienna today.
In conclusion, let me emphasise that the democratic process in Belarus is likely to be a long process that will eventually succeed only with the support of the population. This is why we must continue our efforts to raise awareness among the Belarusian population at large through support to civil society and facilitation of contacts between the people. As Belarus stands at the crossroads, it is more crucial than ever that we all pool our efforts to implement a common strategy and be ready to react to developments in Belarus as they take place. The Commission remains committed to doing its part.
On behalf of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and the Commission I am pleased to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on the situation in Belarus in the run-up to the 19 March presidential election and on the Commission’s work to support democratisation and to support civil society.
Let me start by saying a few words on the overall situation in Belarus. The Commission is still deeply concerned about the absence of democracy and the lack of respect for human rights in Belarus. This situation has further deteriorated as the election date is nearing and has resulted in a severe quashing of the voice of the opposition and the stifling of the independent press over the last few months.
The fact that an OSCE mission has been invited to observe the presidential election and that a number of contenders to President Lukashenko are likely to be allowed to contest the presidential race is a welcome move, but not sufficient evidence of a functioning democracy. At this juncture, when the OSCE observers have started their work on the ground, it is important that the European Union and the Commission contribute to the smooth functioning of the mission. The European Union’s opinion and reaction will be based on this mission’s report.
In terms of the European Union’s response, you are well aware of the unequivocal message that the European Union conveyed to Belarus and reiterated in the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 30 January: the European Union has stressed the importance it attaches to a democratic election process and has also clearly voiced its resolve to issue targeted sanctions in the event that these elections prove to be fraudulent. To balance this message with a positive note, the European Union has repeated its offer to have closer relations with Belarus, provided that we see convincing progress towards democracy.
Let me now turn to the Commission’s specific action and underline that the Commission has made good on its pledge to raise its role in Belarus. Faced with growing repression and restrictions by the Government of Belarus on foreign assistance to non-governmental bodies, the Commission has stepped up and speeded up such assistance to Belarus. In 2005 alone, up to EUR 8.9 million have been dedicated to democracy and civil society projects. Creative tools have been developed to overcome the hurdles to assistance delivery. We have thus shifted part of our support to NGOs located outside Belarus. The EUR 2.2 million we granted last December to the European Humanitarian University in exile, as well as our support to independent media, are vibrant examples of this novel approach.
In the field of independent media, I am delighted to say that the Commission has been at the forefront of donors’ action. We have started with support to the radio broadcasting of daily news reports to Belarus in both Russian and Belarusian. However, our main achievement is a EUR 2 million media project which is now being launched. It includes radio and television broadcasting, internet activities, support to the Belarusian independent press, and the training of Belarusian journalists. The project will allow the broadcasting of specific TV and radio programmes as from February, well ahead of the elections. We believe this high-quality project, which is supported by a Europe-wide team and sharply factors in Belarusian sensitivities – that is, no propaganda, straight news and sheer entertainment – will rightly reach out to large segments of the population.
In addition, the Commission has decided to open a delegation in Minsk but unfortunately the Belarusian authorities have not yet given their agreement. Pending progress on this front, we will post a chargé d’affaires to Kiev who will travel frequently to Minsk.
Finally, last Monday the Commission brought together all international donors to Belarus in order to plan ahead. This meeting has set in motion a common reflection on assistance beyond the election date. This meeting was a signal that assistance and coordination will not dwindle after the election date."@en4
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"Mr President, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner had very much hoped to be with you to discuss Belarus. She has been intensely engaged in developing the Commission’s activities on Belarus since we took office and I am convinced she will not miss the opportunity to discuss Belarus with the Russian Foreign Minister at their meeting that is being held in Vienna today.
In conclusion, let me emphasise that the democratic process in Belarus is likely to be a long process that will eventually succeed only with the support of the population. This is why we must continue our efforts to raise awareness among the Belarusian population at large through support to civil society and facilitation of contacts between the people. As Belarus stands at the crossroads, it is more crucial than ever that we all pool our efforts to implement a common strategy and be ready to react to developments in Belarus as they take place. The Commission remains committed to doing its part.
On behalf of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and the Commission I am pleased to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on the situation in Belarus in the run-up to the 19 March presidential election and on the Commission’s work to support democratisation and to support civil society.
Let me start by saying a few words on the overall situation in Belarus. The Commission is still deeply concerned about the absence of democracy and the lack of respect for human rights in Belarus. This situation has further deteriorated as the election date is nearing and has resulted in a severe quashing of the voice of the opposition and the stifling of the independent press over the last few months.
The fact that an OSCE mission has been invited to observe the presidential election and that a number of contenders to President Lukashenko are likely to be allowed to contest the presidential race is a welcome move, but not sufficient evidence of a functioning democracy. At this juncture, when the OSCE observers have started their work on the ground, it is important that the European Union and the Commission contribute to the smooth functioning of the mission. The European Union’s opinion and reaction will be based on this mission’s report.
In terms of the European Union’s response, you are well aware of the unequivocal message that the European Union conveyed to Belarus and reiterated in the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 30 January: the European Union has stressed the importance it attaches to a democratic election process and has also clearly voiced its resolve to issue targeted sanctions in the event that these elections prove to be fraudulent. To balance this message with a positive note, the European Union has repeated its offer to have closer relations with Belarus, provided that we see convincing progress towards democracy.
Let me now turn to the Commission’s specific action and underline that the Commission has made good on its pledge to raise its role in Belarus. Faced with growing repression and restrictions by the Government of Belarus on foreign assistance to non-governmental bodies, the Commission has stepped up and speeded up such assistance to Belarus. In 2005 alone, up to EUR 8.9 million have been dedicated to democracy and civil society projects. Creative tools have been developed to overcome the hurdles to assistance delivery. We have thus shifted part of our support to NGOs located outside Belarus. The EUR 2.2 million we granted last December to the European Humanitarian University in exile, as well as our support to independent media, are vibrant examples of this novel approach.
In the field of independent media, I am delighted to say that the Commission has been at the forefront of donors’ action. We have started with support to the radio broadcasting of daily news reports to Belarus in both Russian and Belarusian. However, our main achievement is a EUR 2 million media project which is now being launched. It includes radio and television broadcasting, internet activities, support to the Belarusian independent press, and the training of Belarusian journalists. The project will allow the broadcasting of specific TV and radio programmes as from February, well ahead of the elections. We believe this high-quality project, which is supported by a Europe-wide team and sharply factors in Belarusian sensitivities – that is, no propaganda, straight news and sheer entertainment – will rightly reach out to large segments of the population.
In addition, the Commission has decided to open a delegation in Minsk but unfortunately the Belarusian authorities have not yet given their agreement. Pending progress on this front, we will post a chargé d’affaires to Kiev who will travel frequently to Minsk.
Finally, last Monday the Commission brought together all international donors to Belarus in order to plan ahead. This meeting has set in motion a common reflection on assistance beyond the election date. This meeting was a signal that assistance and coordination will not dwindle after the election date."@cs1
"Hr. formand, kommissær Ferrero-Waldner håbede meget på at kunne drøfte situationen i Belarus med Dem. Hun har været meget involveret i Kommissionens aktiviteter i forbindelse med Belarus siden indledningen af vores embedsperiode, og jeg er overbevist om, at hun ikke vil undlade at drøfte Belarus med den russiske udenrigsminister på mødet, der afholdes i Wien i dag.
Jeg vil slutte af med at understrege, at den demokratiske proces i Belarus sandsynligvis vil være langvarig og kun vil lykkes med befolkningens støtte. Derfor skal vi fortsætte vores bestræbelser på at skabe bevidsthed i den belarussiske befolkning generelt gennem støtte til det civile samfund og kontakt mellem mennesker. Belarus står ved en skillevej, og det er derfor vigtigere end nogensinde før, at vi forener vores bestræbelser på at gennemføre en fælles strategi og at vi er klar til at reagere på udviklingen i Belarus i takt med, at den finder sted. Kommissionen er stadig helt indstillet på at gøre sin del.
Jeg ønsker på vegne af kommissær Ferrero-Waldner og Kommissionen at understrege, at det glæder mig at have mulighed for at udveksle synspunkter om situationen i Belarus under optakten til præsidentvalget den 19. marts og om Kommissionens arbejde til støtte af demokratiseringsprocessen og det civile samfund.
Jeg ønsker at starte med at sige et par ord om den generelle situation i Belarus. Kommissionen er stadig dybt bekymret over det manglende demokrati og den manglende respekt for menneskerettigheder i Belarus. Situationen er forværret yderligere i takt med, at valget nærmer sig, og har resulteret i en alvorlig undertrykkelse af oppositionen og den uafhængige presse i løbet af de seneste par måneder.
Det glæder os, at der er inviteret en OSCE-mission med henblik på at observere præsidentvalget, og at der sandsynligvis vil blive givet tilladelse til deltagelse af en række kandidater til udfordring af præsident Lukasjenko, men det er ikke tilstrækkeligt bevis på et fungerende demokrati. På nuværende tidspunkt, hvor OSCE-observatørerne har indledt arbejdet på stedet, er det vigtigt, at EU og Kommissionen bidrager til den optimale gennemførelse af missionen. EU's vurdering og reaktion vil være baseret på rapporten fra missionen.
Med hensyn til EU's reaktion er alle klar over det utvetydige budskab, som EU har sendt til Belarus, og som blev gentaget på Rådets (almindelige anliggender og eksterne forbindelser) møde den 30. januar. EU har understreget betydningen af en demokratisk valgproces og tydeligt tilkendegivet sin beslutning om at pålægge målrettede sanktioner, hvis der er tale om valgsvindel. For at der også skal indgå en positiv tone i budskabet, gentages EU's ønske om at styrke forbindelserne med Belarus under forudsætning af, at vi oplever overbevisende fremskridt i retning af demokrati.
Hvad angår Kommissionens specifikke aktioner ønsker jeg at understrege, at Kommissionen har holdt sit løfte om at spille en større rolle i forbindelse med Belarus. På grund af den belarussiske regerings undertrykkende politik og fastsættelse af begrænsninger i forbindelse med den udenlandske støtte til ngo'er har Kommissionen grebet ind og fremskyndet denne støtte til Belarus. I 2005 alene blev der tildelt op imod 8,9 millioner euro i støtte til projekter til fremme af demokrati og til fordel for det civile samfund. Der er udviklet kreative værktøjer til overvindelse af forhindringer i forhold til ydelse af støtten. Vi har dermed omdirigeret en del af vores støtte til ngo'er uden for Belarus. De 2,2 millioner euro, som vi tildelte i december til det europæiske humanvidenskabelige universitet i eksil, og vores støtte til de uafhængige medier er tydelige eksempler på denne nye fremgangsmåde.
Angående de uafhængige medier glæder det mig at kunne sige, at Kommissionen har været i forreste linje som donor. Vi startede med at støtte radioudsendelser af daglige nyheder til Belarus på både russisk og belarussisk. Den største bedrift har dog været iværksættelsen af et medieprojekt, hvortil der er afsat 2 millioner euro. Projektet omfatter radio- og tv-udsendelser, internetaktiviteter, støtte til den belarussiske uafhængige presse og uddannelse af belarussiske journalister. Gennem projektet vil der være mulighed for at udsende radio- og tv-programmer fra februar - længe inden valget. Vi mener, at dette kvalitetsprojekt, der støttes af et team fra hele Europa, og som specifikt undgår propaganda og lægger vægt på objektive nyheder og ren underholdning, vil nå ud til store dele af befolkningen.
Derudover har Kommissionen besluttet at oprette en delegation i Minsk, men desværre har de belarussiske myndigheder endnu ikke givet tilladelse. Afhængigt af de fremskridt, der opnås på området, vil vi sende en
til Kiev, som ofte vil rejse til Minsk.
Endelig i mandags samlede Kommissionen alle internationale donorer, der støtter Belarus, for at planlægge fremtiden. På mødet drøftede man støtten efter valget. Mødet var et signal om, at støtte og koordination ikke vil ikke vil ophøre efter valget."@da2
".
Herr Präsident! Frau Kommissarin Ferrero-Waldner hatte sehr gehofft, an der gemeinsamen Aussprache über die Lage in Belarus teilnehmen zu können. Sie hat sich seit unserem Amtsantritt intensiv an der Entwicklung der Aktivitäten der Kommission für Belarus beteiligt, und ich bin sicher, dass sie das Thema Belarus in ihren Gesprächen mit dem russischen Außenminister zur Sprache bringen wird, das heute in Wien stattfindet.
Zum Abschluss möchte ich darauf hinweisen, dass der demokratische Prozess in Belarus aller Voraussicht nach ein langer Prozess sein wird, der letztlich nur mit Unterstützung der Bevölkerung zum Erfolg führen wird. Aus diesem Grund müssen wir unsere Bemühungen fortsetzen, die gesamte belarussische Bevölkerung durch die Unterstützung der Zivilgesellschaft und die Erleichterung von Kontakten zwischen den Menschen zu sensibilisieren. Da Belarus derzeit an einem Scheideweg steht, ist es jetzt umso wichtiger, dass wir alle unsere Anstrengungen zur Umsetzung einer gemeinsamen Strategie bündeln und bereit sind, auf die jeweiligen Entwicklungen in Belarus zu reagieren. Die Kommission ist weiterhin entschlossen, ihren Beitrag zu leisten.
Im Namen von Kommissarin Ferrero-Waldner und der Kommission freue ich mich, dass ich heute Gelegenheit zu diesem Meinungsaustausch mit Ihnen über die Lage in Belarus im Hinblick auf die Präsidentschaftswahlen am 19. März sowie über die Arbeit der Kommission zur Förderung der Demokratisierung und zur Unterstützung der Zivilgesellschaft habe.
Lassen Sie mich zu Beginn einige Worte über die allgemeine Lage in Belarus sagen. Die Kommission ist nach wie vor äußerst besorgt über die fehlende Demokratie und die unzureichende Achtung der Menschenrechte in Belarus. Angesichts des näher rückenden Wahltermins hat sich die Lage weiter verschlechtert, und dies hat dazu geführt, dass die Opposition in den letzten Monaten massiv unterdrückt und die unabhängige Presse in ihrer Berichterstattung behindert wurde.
Die Tatsache, dass eine OSZE-Mission zur Wahlbeobachtung bei den Präsidentschaftswahlen eingeladen wurde und neben Präsident Lukaschenko nun anscheinend auch noch einige andere Präsidentschaftskandidaten zugelassen werden sollen, ist zwar begrüßenswert, doch kein ausreichender Beweis für eine funktionierende Demokratie. Bei diesem Stand der Dinge ist es wichtig, dass die Europäische Union und die Kommission das reibungslose Funktionieren der Mission unterstützen, sobald die OSZE-Beobachter ihre Arbeit vor Ort aufgenommen haben. Die Europäische Union wird ihre Bewertung der Wahlen und ihre Reaktion darauf auf den Bericht dieser Mission stützen.
Was die Reaktion der Europäischen Union betrifft, kennen Sie alle die klare Botschaft, die die Europäische Union Belarus übermittelt und im Rat Allgemeine Angelegenheiten und Außenbeziehungen am 30. Januar erneut bekräftigt hat: Die Europäische Union hat die Bedeutung unterstrichen, die sie einer demokratischen Wahl beimisst, und außerdem ihre Entschlossenheit klar zum Ausdruck gebracht, gezielte Sanktionen zu verhängen, wenn sich herausstellen sollte, dass es bei den Wahlen zu Unregelmäßigkeiten gekommen ist. Auf der anderen Seite hat die Europäische Union ihre Bereitschaft zu einer Vertiefung der Beziehungen zu Belarus erneut bekräftigt, vorausgesetzt, dass wir überzeugende Fortschritte auf dem Weg zur Demokratie erkennen können.
Ich möchte nun auf die konkreten Maßnahmen der Kommission eingehen und betonen, dass sie ihr Versprechen, sich stärker in Belarus zu engagieren, eingelöst hat. Als Reaktion auf die zunehmenden Auflagen und Beschränkungen, die von der Regierung von Belarus für die ausländische Unterstützung von Nichtregierungsorganisationen festgelegt worden sind, hat die Kommission diese Unterstützung für Belarus aufgestockt und beschleunigt. Allein 2005 wurden 8,9 Millionen Euro für Projekte zur Förderung der Demokratie und zur Unterstützung der Zivilgesellschaft bereitgestellt. Zur Umgehung der Hürden, mit denen verhindert werden soll, dass die Unterstützung bei den Empfängern ankommt, wurden kreative Strategien entwickelt. Wir haben deshalb einen Teil unserer Unterstützung auf NRO außerhalb von Belarus verlagert. Die 2,2 Millionen Euro, die wir im Dezember vergangenen Jahres für die Europäische Humanistische Universität im Exil bereitgestellt haben, sowie unsere Unterstützung für unabhängige Medien, sind praktische Beispiele für diesen neuen Ansatz.
Was die unabhängigen Medien angeht, freue ich mich sagen zu können, dass die Kommission hier zu den wichtigsten Gebern gehört. Wir haben mit der Unterstützung eines Rundfunkprogramms begonnen, das täglich Nachrichten in russischer und belarussischer Sprache sendet, die in Belarus empfangen werden können. Unser größter Erfolg ist jedoch ein Medienprojekt mit einem Finanzvolumen von 2 Millionen Euro, das jetzt gestartet wird. Es umfasst Rundfunk- und Fernsehprogramme, Beiträge im Internet, die Unterstützung der unabhängigen Presse in Belarus und die Schulung von belarussischen Journalisten. Das Projekt ermöglicht von Februar an, also rechtzeitig vor den Wahlen, die Ausstrahlung spezieller Fernseh- und Rundfunkprogramme. Wir glauben, dass dieses hochkarätige Projekt, das von einem Team aus mehreren europäischen Ländern unterstützt wird und genau das bietet, woran es in Belarus mangelt – Sendungen ohne Propaganda, unverfälschte Nachrichten und reine Unterhaltung –, zu Recht für große Teile der Bevölkerung interessant sein wird.
Darüber hinaus hat die Kommission beschlossen, eine Delegation in Minsk einzurichten, aber leider liegt bis jetzt noch keine Zustimmung der belarussischen Behörden vor. Bis sich hier etwas bewegt, werden wir einen Beauftragten in Kiew installieren, der regelmäßig nach Minsk reisen wird.
Schließlich hat die Kommission vergangenen Montag alle internationalen Geber für Belarus zusammengerufen, um die zukünftigen Planungen abzustimmen. Bei diesem Treffen wurde gemeinsam darüber nachgedacht, wie die Unterstützung nach den Präsidentschaftswahlen fortgeführt werden soll. Dieses Treffen war ein Signal, dass die Unterstützung und Koordinierung nach der Wahl unvermindert weitergehen wird."@de9
".
Señor Presidente, la Comisaria Ferrero-Waldner desearía haber estado aquí para debatir la cuestión de Belarús. Se ha dedicado intensamente al desempeño de las actividades de la Comisión respecto a Belarús desde que asumió su cargo, y estoy convencido de que no desaprovechará la oportunidad de discutir este tema con el Ministro de Asuntos Exteriores ruso en una reunión que se celebra hoy en Viena.
En conclusión, permítanme recalcar la probabilidad de que el proceso democrático de Belarús sea un proceso largo que solo podrá hacerse realidad con el apoyo de la población. Por eso debemos continuar con nuestros esfuerzos de concienciar a todos los sectores de la población belarusa a través del apoyo a la sociedad civil y la facilitación de contactos entre personas. Dado que Belarús se encuentra en una encrucijada, es más importante que nunca que aunemos todos nuestros esfuerzos para aplicar una estrategia común y estemos dispuestos a responder sobre la marcha a los acontecimientos que se produzcan en Belarús. La Comisión sigue decidida a desempeñar el papel que le corresponde.
En su nombre y en el de la Comisión, me complace tener esta oportunidad de intercambiar puntos de vista con sus Señorías acerca de la situación en Belarús en la antesala de las elecciones presidenciales del 19 de marzo y sobre la labor de la Comisión en apoyo a la democratización y a la sociedad civil.
Permítanme empezar comentando brevemente la situación global en Belarús. La Comisión todavía está profundamente preocupada por la ausencia de democracia y la falta de respeto de los derechos humanos en Belarús. Esta situación se ha ido deteriorando a medida que se acerca la fecha de las elecciones y ha hecho que durante los últimos meses haya sido acallada la voz de la oposición y reprimida la prensa independiente.
El hecho de que una misión de la OSCE haya sido invitada a observar las elecciones presidenciales y la posibilidad de que se permita a varios competidores del Presidente Lukashenko presentarse como candidatos a la carrera presidencial es un cambio positivo, pero no es prueba suficiente de una democracia en funcionamiento. En esta coyuntura, cuando los observadores de la OSCE han iniciado su trabajo sobre el terreno, es importante que la Unión Europea y la Comisión contribuyan al buen funcionamiento de la misión. La opinión y la reacción de la Unión Europea se basarán en el informe de dicha misión.
Por lo que respecta a la respuesta de la Unión Europea, ustedes son plenamente conscientes del mensaje inequívoco que transmitió la Unión Europea a Belarús, reiterado en el Consejo de Asuntos Generales y Relaciones Exteriores de 30 de enero: la Unión Europea ha resaltado la importancia que concede al proceso electoral democrático y también ha expresado claramente su firme voluntad de imponer sanciones selectivas en el caso de que estas elecciones demuestren ser fraudulentas. Para equilibrar este mensaje con una nota positiva, la Unión Europea ha repetido su oferta de mantener relaciones más estrechas con Belarús, siempre y cuando se observen avances convincentes hacia la democracia.
Permítanme ahora abordar la acción concreta de la Comisión y subrayar que esta se ha mantenido firme en su promesa de impulsar su papel en Belarús. Frente a una represión creciente y a las restricciones impuestas por el Gobierno de Belarús a la ayuda extranjera a favor de las organizaciones no gubernamentales, la Comisión ha reforzado y acelerado dicha ayuda a Belarús. Solo en 2005 se destinaron 8,9 millones de euros a proyectos relacionados con la democracia y la sociedad civil. Se han desarrollado herramientas creativas para superar los obstáculos a los que se enfrenta la prestación de asistencia. De este modo hemos transferido parte de nuestro apoyo a ONG situadas fuera de Belarús. Los 2,2 millones de euros que concedimos en diciembre pasado a la Universidad Humanitaria Europea en el exilio, así como nuestro apoyo a los medios de comunicación independientes, son ejemplos vivos de este novedoso planteamiento.
En el ámbito de los medios de comunicación independientes me complace decir que la Comisión se ha situado al frente de la acción de los donantes. Hemos empezado apoyando la transmisión radiofónica de informes de noticias diarios a Belarús, tanto en ruso como en belaruso. No obstante, nuestro principal logro es un proyecto mediático de 2 millones de euros que se está poniendo en marcha en la actualidad. Incluye transmisiones de radio y televisión, actividades de Internet, apoyo a la prensa independiente belarusa y la formación de periodistas belarusos. El proyecto permitirá la transmisión de programas específicos de radio y televisión a partir de febrero, con tiempo suficiente antes de las elecciones. Consideramos que este proyecto de gran calidad, apoyado por un equipo paneuropeo y que tiene muy en cuenta las sensibilidades belorusas –es decir, nada de propaganda, sino noticias directas y entretenimiento puro– llegará directamente a amplios sectores de la población.
Además, la Comisión ha decidido abrir una delegación en Minsk, pero lamentablemente las autoridades belorusas todavía no han dado su consentimiento. A la espera de los progresos en este frente, destinaremos a un encargado de negocios en Kiev, quien viajará con frecuencia a Minsk.
Finalmente, el lunes pasado la Comisión consiguió reunir a todos los donantes internacionales de Belarús con el fin de planificar el futuro. Esta reunión ha puesto en marcha una reflexión común sobre la ayuda más allá de la fecha de las elecciones. Esta reunión fue un signo de que la ayuda y la coordinación no disminuirán tras las elecciones."@es20
"Mr President, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner had very much hoped to be with you to discuss Belarus. She has been intensely engaged in developing the Commission’s activities on Belarus since we took office and I am convinced she will not miss the opportunity to discuss Belarus with the Russian Foreign Minister at their meeting that is being held in Vienna today.
In conclusion, let me emphasise that the democratic process in Belarus is likely to be a long process that will eventually succeed only with the support of the population. This is why we must continue our efforts to raise awareness among the Belarusian population at large through support to civil society and facilitation of contacts between the people. As Belarus stands at the crossroads, it is more crucial than ever that we all pool our efforts to implement a common strategy and be ready to react to developments in Belarus as they take place. The Commission remains committed to doing its part.
On behalf of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and the Commission I am pleased to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on the situation in Belarus in the run-up to the 19 March presidential election and on the Commission’s work to support democratisation and to support civil society.
Let me start by saying a few words on the overall situation in Belarus. The Commission is still deeply concerned about the absence of democracy and the lack of respect for human rights in Belarus. This situation has further deteriorated as the election date is nearing and has resulted in a severe quashing of the voice of the opposition and the stifling of the independent press over the last few months.
The fact that an OSCE mission has been invited to observe the presidential election and that a number of contenders to President Lukashenko are likely to be allowed to contest the presidential race is a welcome move, but not sufficient evidence of a functioning democracy. At this juncture, when the OSCE observers have started their work on the ground, it is important that the European Union and the Commission contribute to the smooth functioning of the mission. The European Union’s opinion and reaction will be based on this mission’s report.
In terms of the European Union’s response, you are well aware of the unequivocal message that the European Union conveyed to Belarus and reiterated in the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 30 January: the European Union has stressed the importance it attaches to a democratic election process and has also clearly voiced its resolve to issue targeted sanctions in the event that these elections prove to be fraudulent. To balance this message with a positive note, the European Union has repeated its offer to have closer relations with Belarus, provided that we see convincing progress towards democracy.
Let me now turn to the Commission’s specific action and underline that the Commission has made good on its pledge to raise its role in Belarus. Faced with growing repression and restrictions by the Government of Belarus on foreign assistance to non-governmental bodies, the Commission has stepped up and speeded up such assistance to Belarus. In 2005 alone, up to EUR 8.9 million have been dedicated to democracy and civil society projects. Creative tools have been developed to overcome the hurdles to assistance delivery. We have thus shifted part of our support to NGOs located outside Belarus. The EUR 2.2 million we granted last December to the European Humanitarian University in exile, as well as our support to independent media, are vibrant examples of this novel approach.
In the field of independent media, I am delighted to say that the Commission has been at the forefront of donors’ action. We have started with support to the radio broadcasting of daily news reports to Belarus in both Russian and Belarusian. However, our main achievement is a EUR 2 million media project which is now being launched. It includes radio and television broadcasting, internet activities, support to the Belarusian independent press, and the training of Belarusian journalists. The project will allow the broadcasting of specific TV and radio programmes as from February, well ahead of the elections. We believe this high-quality project, which is supported by a Europe-wide team and sharply factors in Belarusian sensitivities – that is, no propaganda, straight news and sheer entertainment – will rightly reach out to large segments of the population.
In addition, the Commission has decided to open a delegation in Minsk but unfortunately the Belarusian authorities have not yet given their agreement. Pending progress on this front, we will post a chargé d’affaires to Kiev who will travel frequently to Minsk.
Finally, last Monday the Commission brought together all international donors to Belarus in order to plan ahead. This meeting has set in motion a common reflection on assistance beyond the election date. This meeting was a signal that assistance and coordination will not dwindle after the election date."@et5
".
Arvoisa puhemies, komission jäsen Ferrero-Waldner olisi mielellään tullut tänne keskustelemaan kanssanne Valko-Venäjän tilanteesta. Hän on tehnyt intensiivisesti työtä Valko-Venäjää koskevien komission toimien kehittämiseksi siitä asti, kun toimikautemme alkoi, ja olen varma, että hän käyttää tilaisuutta hyväkseen keskustellakseen aiheesta Venäjän ulkoministerin kanssa Wienissä, missä he tapaavat tänään.
Yhteenvetona haluan korostaa, että Valko-Venäjän demokratiaprosessi jatkuu todennäköisesti pitkään, ja se voi viime kädessä onnistua ainoastaan, jos maan kansa tukee sitä. Tämän vuoksi meidän pitää edelleen lisätä valveutuneisuutta koko Valko-Venäjän kansan keskuudessa niin, että tuemme kansalaisyhteiskuntaa ja helpotamme ihmisten välistä kanssakäymistä. Koska Valko-Venäjä on tullut tienhaaraan, nyt jos koskaan on ratkaisevan tärkeää, että me yhdessä pyrimme toteuttamaan yhteisen strategian ja olemme valmiit reagoimaan, kun maassa kehittyviin tilanteisiin. Komissio sitoutuu vastaisuudessakin hoitamaan osuutensa.
Minulla on komission jäsen Ferrero-Waldnerin ja komission puolesta ilo saada vaihtaa näkemyksiä kanssanne Valko-Venäjän tilanteesta 19. maaliskuuta toimitettavan presidentinvaalin edellä sekä komission työstä demokratisoinnin ja kansalaisyhteiskunnan edistämiseksi.
Aluksi haluan puhua hiukan Valko-Venäjän yleistilanteesta. Komissio on edelleen hyvin huolissaan siitä, ettei Valko-Venäjällä ole demokratiaa eikä siellä kunnioiteta ihmisoikeuksia. Tilanne on pahentunut entisestään vaalien lähestyessä, mikä on johtanut siihen, että oppositiota on viime kuukausina yritetty ankarin toimin estää saamasta ääntään kuuluviin, ja riippumaton lehdistö on pyritty vaientamaan.
Se, että ETYJ:n tarkkailijaryhmä on kutsuttu valvomaan presidentinvaalia ja että monille presidentti Lukašenkon vastaehdokkaista annetaan mahdollisuus osallistua presidenttikilpaan, on myönteistä, mutta nämä seikat eivät ole riittävä osoitus toimivasta demokratiasta. Nyt, kun ETYJ:n vaalitarkkailijat ovat aloittaneet työskentelyn paikan päällä, on tärkeää, että Euroopan unioni ja komissio edistävät toimillaan tarkkailijaryhmän työn jouhevaa etenemistä. Euroopan unionin myöhemmin esittämät näkemykset ja ratkaisut perustuvat ryhmän raporttiin.
Euroopan unionin suhtautumisesta tähän tilanteeseen totean, että tiedätte varsin hyvin sen yksiselitteisen viestin, jonka Euroopan unioni välitti Valko-Venäjälle ja jonka se toi uudelleen esiin yleisten asioiden ja ulkosuhteiden neuvoston kokouksessa 30. tammikuuta. Euroopan unioni on painottanut sitä, miten tärkeänä se pitää demokraattisia vaaleja, ja se on myös tuonut esiin päätöksensä määrätä kohdennettuja pakotteita siinä tapauksessa, että vaalit osoittautuvat vilpillisiksi. Tasapainottaakseen tätä viestiä myönteisillä asioilla Euroopan unioni on toistanut tarjouksensa lähentää suhteitaan Valko-Venäjään, mikäli myöhemmin voidaan todeta, että maan demokratiakehitys on ollut vakuuttavaa.
Haluan nyt puhua komission erityistoimista ja korostaa, että komissio on täyttänyt lupauksensa vahvistaa rooliaan Valko-Venäjällä. Koska maan hallitus on yhä enemmän pyrkinyt estämään kansalaisjärjestöjen toiminnan ja rajoittamaan niille kohdennettavaa ulkomaan apua, komissio on puuttunut asiaan ja lisännyt tämäntyyppisen avun myöntämistä Valko-Venäjälle. Pelkästään vuonna 2005 se varasi 8,9 miljoonaa euroa demokratiaa ja kansalaisyhteiskuntaa edistäviin hankkeisiin. Avun toimittamisen tiellä olevien esteiden poistamiseksi on kehitetty luovia ratkaisuja. Olemme näin ollen siirtäneet osan tuestamme kansalaisjärjestöille, jotka toimivat Valko-Venäjän ulkopuolella. Maanpaossa olevalle eurooppalaiselle humanistiselle yliopistolle (EHU) viime vuoden joulukuussa myöntämämme 2,2 miljoonaa euroa sekä riippumattomille tiedotusvälineille antamamme tuki ovat hyviä esimerkkejä tästä uudesta menettelytavasta.
Riippumattomista tiedotusvälineistä voin ilokseni todeta, että komissio on yksi tärkeimmistä avunantajista. Olemme tukeneet päivittäisiä radion uutislähetyksiä Valko-Venäjällä sekä venäjän että valkovenäjän kielellä. Tärkein saavutuksemme on kuitenkin tiedotusvälinehanke, johon on varattu 2 miljoonan euroa ja jota käynnistetään parhaillaan. Se kattaa radio- ja televisiolähetykset, Internet-toiminnan, Valko-Venäjän riippumattomille tiedotusvälineille suunnattavan tuen sekä valkovenäläisten toimittajien koulutuksen. Hankkeen ansiosta erityisiä televisio- ja radio-ohjelmia voidaan alkaa lähettää helmikuusta lähtien hyvissä ajoin ennen vaaleja. Uskomme, että tämä hanke, jota puoltavat koko Euroopan kattava työryhmä ja Valko-Venäjän tarpeisiin vastaaminen – ei propagandaa, selkeitä uutisia ja puhdasta ajanvietettä – tavoittavat oikeutetusti suuria kansanosia.
Lisäksi komissio on päättänyt lähettää valtuuskunnan Minskiin, mutta valitettavasti Valko-Venäjän viranomaiset eivät ole vielä antaneet tähän suostumusta. Odottaessamme asian etenemistä sijoitamme Kiovaan asiainhoitajan, jonka on määrä matkustaa Minskiin usein.
Lopuksi totean, että viime maanantaina komissio kutsui koolle kaikki Valko-Venäjää tukevat kansainväliset avunantajat laatimaan suunnitelmia. Kyseisessä tapaamisessa pohdittiin yhdessä vaalien jälkeen tarjottavaa tukea. Tapaaminen oli viesti siitä, että tukea ja koordinointitoimia ei vähennetä vaalien jälkeen."@fi7
".
Monsieur le Président, Mme la commissaire Ferrero-Waldner aurait vraiment voulu être parmi vous pour le débat sur le Belarus. Elle s’est engagée de manière intensive dans l’élaboration des activités de la Commission relatives au Belarus depuis que nous avons entamé notre mandat et je suis convaincu qu’elle ne manquera pas de discuter du Belarus avec le ministre russe des affaires étrangères lors de la réunion qu’ils tiendront aujourd’hui à Vienne.
Pour conclure, je voudrais insister sur le fait que le processus démocratique au Belarus sera probablement long et ne réussira finalement que grâce au soutien de la population. C’est pourquoi nous devons poursuivre nos efforts de sensibilisation auprès de la population bélarussienne dans son ensemble, en apportant notre soutien à la société civile et en facilitant les contacts entre les personnes. Puisque le Belarus se trouve à un carrefour, il est plus que jamais crucial d’unir nos efforts dans le but de mettre en œuvre une stratégie commune et de nous tenir prêts à réagir à l’évolution des événements au Belarus au fur et à mesure qu’ils se produisent. La Commission est toujours engagée à remplir son rôle.
Au nom de la commissaire Ferrero-Waldner et de la Commission, je suis ravi d’avoir la possibilité d’échanger avec vous des points de vue sur la situation au Belarus en cette période précédant l’élection présidentielle du 19 mars et sur le travail de la Commission visant à soutenir la démocratisation et la société civile.
Je voudrais commencer par quelques mots sur la situation générale au Belarus. La Commission s’inquiète toujours vivement de l’absence de démocratie et du non-respect des droits de l’homme au Belarus. Cette situation s’est encore détériorée à l’approche de la date de l’élection et a entraîné ces derniers mois une répression sévère de l’opposition et un étouffement de la presse indépendante.
Nous apprécions qu’une mission de l’OSCE ait été invitée pour observer l’élection présidentielle et qu’un certain nombre de rivaux du président Loukachenko soient probablement autorisés à disputer la course à la présidence, mais cela ne constitue pas une preuve suffisante d’une démocratie fonctionnant correctement. À ce stade, lorsque les observateurs de l’OSCE auront commencé leur travail sur le terrain, il importe que l’Union européenne et la Commission contribuent au bon déroulement de la mission. L’opinion et la réaction de l’Union européenne seront fondées sur le rapport de cette mission.
Pour ce qui est de la réaction de l’Union européenne, vous connaissez le message parfaitement clair que l’Union européenne a adressé au Belarus et qu’elle a réitéré lors du Conseil «Affaires générales et relations extérieures» du 30 janvier: l’Union européenne a souligné l’importance qu’elle attache à un processus électoral démocratique et a également exprimé clairement sa détermination à imposer des sanctions ciblées au cas où cette élection s’avérerait frauduleuse. Pour compenser ce message par une note positive, l’Union européenne a rappelé sa proposition visant à établir des relations plus étroites avec le Belarus, à condition que nous observions des progrès convaincants sur la voie de la démocratie.
Je voudrais à présent passer à l’action précise de la Commission et souligner que celle-ci a tenu sa promesse de renforcer son rôle au Belarus. Face à la répression et aux restrictions croissantes du gouvernement bélarussien à l’égard de l’aide étrangère apportée aux organismes non gouvernementaux, la Commission a consolidé et accéléré ce type d’aide destiné au Belarus. Rien qu’en 2005, pas moins de 8,9 millions d’euros ont été consacrés à la démocratie et à des projets de la société civile. Des instruments créatifs ont été mis au point afin de surmonter les obstacles qui entravent la fourniture de l’aide. Nous avons donc transféré une partie de notre aide à des ONG situées en dehors du Belarus. Les 2,2 millions d’euros que nous avons octroyés en décembre dernier à l’université humanitaire européenne en exil, ainsi que notre soutien aux médias indépendants sont de beaux exemples de cette approche originale.
En ce qui concerne les médias indépendants, je suis ravi d’annoncer que la Commission était au premier plan de l’action des donateurs. Nous avons commencé par soutenir la radiotélédiffusion de bulletins d’information quotidiens destinés au Belarus, tant en russe qu’en biélorusse. Toutefois, notre principale réalisation est un projet médiatique de 2 millions d’euros en cours de lancement. Il comprend la diffusion d’émissions de radio et de télévision, des activités liées à l’internet, le soutien de la presse indépendante bélarussienne et la formation de journalistes bélarussiens. Ce projet permettra de diffuser des programmes de radio et de télévision bien particuliers à partir de février, bien avant l’élection. Nous croyons que ce projet de haute qualité, qui est soutenu par une équipe européenne et qui tient parfaitement compte des sensibilités bélarussiennes - c’est-à-dire, pas de propagande, des informations immédiates et du divertissement pur -, touchera, à juste titre, de larges pans de la population.
En outre, la Commission a décidé d’établir une délégation à Minsk, mais malheureusement, les autorités bélarussiennes n’ont pas encore donné leur accord. En attendant que cette situation évolue, nous enverrons à Kiev un chargé d’affaires qui se rendra fréquemment à Minsk.
Enfin, lundi dernier, la Commission a réuni tous les donateurs internationaux pour le Belarus en vue de définir des projets. Cette réunion a permis de lancer une réflexion commune sur l’aide à apporter après l’élection et de signaler que l’aide et la coordination ne diminueront pas après l’élection."@fr8
"Mr President, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner had very much hoped to be with you to discuss Belarus. She has been intensely engaged in developing the Commission’s activities on Belarus since we took office and I am convinced she will not miss the opportunity to discuss Belarus with the Russian Foreign Minister at their meeting that is being held in Vienna today.
In conclusion, let me emphasise that the democratic process in Belarus is likely to be a long process that will eventually succeed only with the support of the population. This is why we must continue our efforts to raise awareness among the Belarusian population at large through support to civil society and facilitation of contacts between the people. As Belarus stands at the crossroads, it is more crucial than ever that we all pool our efforts to implement a common strategy and be ready to react to developments in Belarus as they take place. The Commission remains committed to doing its part.
On behalf of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and the Commission I am pleased to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on the situation in Belarus in the run-up to the 19 March presidential election and on the Commission’s work to support democratisation and to support civil society.
Let me start by saying a few words on the overall situation in Belarus. The Commission is still deeply concerned about the absence of democracy and the lack of respect for human rights in Belarus. This situation has further deteriorated as the election date is nearing and has resulted in a severe quashing of the voice of the opposition and the stifling of the independent press over the last few months.
The fact that an OSCE mission has been invited to observe the presidential election and that a number of contenders to President Lukashenko are likely to be allowed to contest the presidential race is a welcome move, but not sufficient evidence of a functioning democracy. At this juncture, when the OSCE observers have started their work on the ground, it is important that the European Union and the Commission contribute to the smooth functioning of the mission. The European Union’s opinion and reaction will be based on this mission’s report.
In terms of the European Union’s response, you are well aware of the unequivocal message that the European Union conveyed to Belarus and reiterated in the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 30 January: the European Union has stressed the importance it attaches to a democratic election process and has also clearly voiced its resolve to issue targeted sanctions in the event that these elections prove to be fraudulent. To balance this message with a positive note, the European Union has repeated its offer to have closer relations with Belarus, provided that we see convincing progress towards democracy.
Let me now turn to the Commission’s specific action and underline that the Commission has made good on its pledge to raise its role in Belarus. Faced with growing repression and restrictions by the Government of Belarus on foreign assistance to non-governmental bodies, the Commission has stepped up and speeded up such assistance to Belarus. In 2005 alone, up to EUR 8.9 million have been dedicated to democracy and civil society projects. Creative tools have been developed to overcome the hurdles to assistance delivery. We have thus shifted part of our support to NGOs located outside Belarus. The EUR 2.2 million we granted last December to the European Humanitarian University in exile, as well as our support to independent media, are vibrant examples of this novel approach.
In the field of independent media, I am delighted to say that the Commission has been at the forefront of donors’ action. We have started with support to the radio broadcasting of daily news reports to Belarus in both Russian and Belarusian. However, our main achievement is a EUR 2 million media project which is now being launched. It includes radio and television broadcasting, internet activities, support to the Belarusian independent press, and the training of Belarusian journalists. The project will allow the broadcasting of specific TV and radio programmes as from February, well ahead of the elections. We believe this high-quality project, which is supported by a Europe-wide team and sharply factors in Belarusian sensitivities – that is, no propaganda, straight news and sheer entertainment – will rightly reach out to large segments of the population.
In addition, the Commission has decided to open a delegation in Minsk but unfortunately the Belarusian authorities have not yet given their agreement. Pending progress on this front, we will post a chargé d’affaires to Kiev who will travel frequently to Minsk.
Finally, last Monday the Commission brought together all international donors to Belarus in order to plan ahead. This meeting has set in motion a common reflection on assistance beyond the election date. This meeting was a signal that assistance and coordination will not dwindle after the election date."@hu11
".
Signor Presidente, il Commissario Ferrero-Waldner sperava vivamente di poter essere presente oggi per discutere della Bielorussia. Sin dall’inizio del nostro mandato si è impegnata attivamente per sviluppare le attività della Commissione in relazione a questo paese, e sono convinto che non si lascerà sfuggire l’occasione per parlarne con il ministro degli Esteri russo nella riunione che si terrà oggi a Vienna.
In conclusione, consentitemi di sottolineare che il processo democratico in Bielorussia sarà probabilmente molto lungo e potrà avere esito positivo solo con il sostegno della popolazione. Per tale motivo dobbiamo insistere nello sforzo di sensibilizzare la popolazione bielorussa nel suo complesso, appoggiando la società civile e agevolando i contatti tra le persone. Poiché la Bielorussia si trova a un bivio, è più importante che mai unire le forze per mettere in atto una strategia comune ed essere pronti a reagire tempestivamente all’evoluzione della situazione bielorussa. La Commissione ribadisce il proprio impegno a fare la sua parte.
A nome del Commissario Ferrero-Waldner e della Commissione sono lieto della possibilità di avere uno scambio di opinioni con voi sulla situazione in Bielorussia in vista delle elezioni presidenziali del 19 marzo e sul lavoro svolto dalla Commissione a sostegno della democratizzazione e della società civile.
Vorrei anzitutto esprimere alcune osservazioni sulla situazione complessiva in cui versa il paese. La Commissione continua a nutrire profonda preoccupazione per l’assenza di democrazia e la mancanza di rispetto dei diritti umani in Bielorussia. Tale situazione è degenerata ulteriormente con l’avvicinarsi della data delle elezioni, tanto che negli ultimi mesi l’opposizione ha subito pesanti limitazioni alla libertà di espressione e la stampa indipendente è stata messa a tacere.
Il fatto che una missione dell’OSCE sia stata invitata a monitorare le elezioni presidenziali e che forse ad alcuni avversari del Presidente Lukashenko sarà consentito di contendersi la carica presidenziale è decisamente gradito, ma non è una prova sufficiente del buon funzionamento della democrazia. In circostanze del genere, quando gli osservatori dell’OSCE avranno iniziato il loro lavoro sul campo, è importante che l’Unione europea e la Commissione contribuiscano ad assicurare uno svolgimento regolare della missione. Il parere e la reazione dell’Unione europea dipenderanno dalla relazione su tale missione.
Per quanto attiene alla risposta comunitaria, conoscete tutti i contenuti dell’inequivocabile messaggio che l’Unione europea ha lanciato alla Bielorussia, che è stato reiterato anche dal Consiglio “Affari generali e Relazioni esterne” del 30 gennaio: l’Unione europea ha sottolineato l’importanza che attribuisce a un processo elettorale democratico e ha inoltre espresso a chiare lettere la propria determinazione a imporre sanzioni mirate nel caso in cui tali elezioni dovessero essere turbate da irregolarità. Per controbilanciare questo monito con una nota positiva, l’Unione europea ha ribadito la propria offerta di instaurare rapporti più stretti con la Bielorussia, a patto che siano rilevati progressi convincenti in senso democratico.
Per quanto concerne le azioni specifiche intraprese dalla Commissione, desidero sottolineare che l’Esecutivo ha tenuto fede all’impegno di rafforzare il proprio ruolo in Bielorussia. A fronte della repressione e delle restrizioni crescenti imposte dal governo bielorusso all’assistenza estera a favore di entità non governative, la Commissione ha intensificato e accelerato tale assistenza alla Bielorussia. Solo nel 2005 sono stati devoluti alla democrazia e a progetti per la società civile ben 8,9 milioni di euro. Sono stati messi a punto strumenti innovativi per superare le barriere all’erogazione di assistenza. Abbiamo perciò stornato parte degli aiuti a ONG ubicate al di fuori dei confini bielorussi. I 2,2 milioni di euro stanziati lo scorso dicembre a favore dell’Università umanitaria europea in esilio, nonché il sostegno ai mezzi di comunicazione indipendenti, sono gli esempi più significativi del nuovo approccio.
Sul fronte dei mezzi di comunicazione indipendenti, ho il piacere di informarvi che con la sua azione la Commissione si colloca tra i primi donatori. Abbiamo iniziato sostenendo la diffusione radiofonica in Bielorussia di notiziari quotidiani in lingua russa e bielorussa. Tuttavia, il nostro principale risultato è rappresentato da un progetto mediatico di 2 milioni di euro il cui avvio è imminente. Esso verte su trasmissioni radiotelevisive, attività su
sostegno alla stampa indipendente della Bielorussia e formazione di giornalisti bielorussi. Il progetto consentirà di trasmettere programmi radiotelevisivi specifici a partire da febbraio, molto prima delle elezioni. A nostro parere, tale progetto di alta qualità, sostenuto da un gruppo europeo e che tiene debito conto dei temi considerati sensibili in Bielorussia – vale a dire, divieto di propaganda, notizie non filtrate e semplice intrattenimento – farà giustamente presa su ampi strati della popolazione.
Inoltre la Commissione ha deciso di aprire una delegazione a Minsk; purtroppo però le autorità della Bielorussia non hanno ancora dato il loro assenso. In attesa di ulteriori progressi su questo fronte, incaricheremo un funzionario a Kiev che si recherà frequentemente a Minsk.
Infine lunedì scorso la Commissione ha riunito tutti i donatori internazionali che assistono la Bielorussia per pianificare il futuro. Tale riunione ha innescato una riflessione comune sugli aiuti dopo le elezioni ed è stato rimarcato che l’assistenza e il coordinamento non cesseranno dopo l’appuntamento elettorale."@it12
"Mr President, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner had very much hoped to be with you to discuss Belarus. She has been intensely engaged in developing the Commission’s activities on Belarus since we took office and I am convinced she will not miss the opportunity to discuss Belarus with the Russian Foreign Minister at their meeting that is being held in Vienna today.
In conclusion, let me emphasise that the democratic process in Belarus is likely to be a long process that will eventually succeed only with the support of the population. This is why we must continue our efforts to raise awareness among the Belarusian population at large through support to civil society and facilitation of contacts between the people. As Belarus stands at the crossroads, it is more crucial than ever that we all pool our efforts to implement a common strategy and be ready to react to developments in Belarus as they take place. The Commission remains committed to doing its part.
On behalf of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and the Commission I am pleased to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on the situation in Belarus in the run-up to the 19 March presidential election and on the Commission’s work to support democratisation and to support civil society.
Let me start by saying a few words on the overall situation in Belarus. The Commission is still deeply concerned about the absence of democracy and the lack of respect for human rights in Belarus. This situation has further deteriorated as the election date is nearing and has resulted in a severe quashing of the voice of the opposition and the stifling of the independent press over the last few months.
The fact that an OSCE mission has been invited to observe the presidential election and that a number of contenders to President Lukashenko are likely to be allowed to contest the presidential race is a welcome move, but not sufficient evidence of a functioning democracy. At this juncture, when the OSCE observers have started their work on the ground, it is important that the European Union and the Commission contribute to the smooth functioning of the mission. The European Union’s opinion and reaction will be based on this mission’s report.
In terms of the European Union’s response, you are well aware of the unequivocal message that the European Union conveyed to Belarus and reiterated in the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 30 January: the European Union has stressed the importance it attaches to a democratic election process and has also clearly voiced its resolve to issue targeted sanctions in the event that these elections prove to be fraudulent. To balance this message with a positive note, the European Union has repeated its offer to have closer relations with Belarus, provided that we see convincing progress towards democracy.
Let me now turn to the Commission’s specific action and underline that the Commission has made good on its pledge to raise its role in Belarus. Faced with growing repression and restrictions by the Government of Belarus on foreign assistance to non-governmental bodies, the Commission has stepped up and speeded up such assistance to Belarus. In 2005 alone, up to EUR 8.9 million have been dedicated to democracy and civil society projects. Creative tools have been developed to overcome the hurdles to assistance delivery. We have thus shifted part of our support to NGOs located outside Belarus. The EUR 2.2 million we granted last December to the European Humanitarian University in exile, as well as our support to independent media, are vibrant examples of this novel approach.
In the field of independent media, I am delighted to say that the Commission has been at the forefront of donors’ action. We have started with support to the radio broadcasting of daily news reports to Belarus in both Russian and Belarusian. However, our main achievement is a EUR 2 million media project which is now being launched. It includes radio and television broadcasting, internet activities, support to the Belarusian independent press, and the training of Belarusian journalists. The project will allow the broadcasting of specific TV and radio programmes as from February, well ahead of the elections. We believe this high-quality project, which is supported by a Europe-wide team and sharply factors in Belarusian sensitivities – that is, no propaganda, straight news and sheer entertainment – will rightly reach out to large segments of the population.
In addition, the Commission has decided to open a delegation in Minsk but unfortunately the Belarusian authorities have not yet given their agreement. Pending progress on this front, we will post a chargé d’affaires to Kiev who will travel frequently to Minsk.
Finally, last Monday the Commission brought together all international donors to Belarus in order to plan ahead. This meeting has set in motion a common reflection on assistance beyond the election date. This meeting was a signal that assistance and coordination will not dwindle after the election date."@lt14
"Mr President, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner had very much hoped to be with you to discuss Belarus. She has been intensely engaged in developing the Commission’s activities on Belarus since we took office and I am convinced she will not miss the opportunity to discuss Belarus with the Russian Foreign Minister at their meeting that is being held in Vienna today.
In conclusion, let me emphasise that the democratic process in Belarus is likely to be a long process that will eventually succeed only with the support of the population. This is why we must continue our efforts to raise awareness among the Belarusian population at large through support to civil society and facilitation of contacts between the people. As Belarus stands at the crossroads, it is more crucial than ever that we all pool our efforts to implement a common strategy and be ready to react to developments in Belarus as they take place. The Commission remains committed to doing its part.
On behalf of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and the Commission I am pleased to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on the situation in Belarus in the run-up to the 19 March presidential election and on the Commission’s work to support democratisation and to support civil society.
Let me start by saying a few words on the overall situation in Belarus. The Commission is still deeply concerned about the absence of democracy and the lack of respect for human rights in Belarus. This situation has further deteriorated as the election date is nearing and has resulted in a severe quashing of the voice of the opposition and the stifling of the independent press over the last few months.
The fact that an OSCE mission has been invited to observe the presidential election and that a number of contenders to President Lukashenko are likely to be allowed to contest the presidential race is a welcome move, but not sufficient evidence of a functioning democracy. At this juncture, when the OSCE observers have started their work on the ground, it is important that the European Union and the Commission contribute to the smooth functioning of the mission. The European Union’s opinion and reaction will be based on this mission’s report.
In terms of the European Union’s response, you are well aware of the unequivocal message that the European Union conveyed to Belarus and reiterated in the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 30 January: the European Union has stressed the importance it attaches to a democratic election process and has also clearly voiced its resolve to issue targeted sanctions in the event that these elections prove to be fraudulent. To balance this message with a positive note, the European Union has repeated its offer to have closer relations with Belarus, provided that we see convincing progress towards democracy.
Let me now turn to the Commission’s specific action and underline that the Commission has made good on its pledge to raise its role in Belarus. Faced with growing repression and restrictions by the Government of Belarus on foreign assistance to non-governmental bodies, the Commission has stepped up and speeded up such assistance to Belarus. In 2005 alone, up to EUR 8.9 million have been dedicated to democracy and civil society projects. Creative tools have been developed to overcome the hurdles to assistance delivery. We have thus shifted part of our support to NGOs located outside Belarus. The EUR 2.2 million we granted last December to the European Humanitarian University in exile, as well as our support to independent media, are vibrant examples of this novel approach.
In the field of independent media, I am delighted to say that the Commission has been at the forefront of donors’ action. We have started with support to the radio broadcasting of daily news reports to Belarus in both Russian and Belarusian. However, our main achievement is a EUR 2 million media project which is now being launched. It includes radio and television broadcasting, internet activities, support to the Belarusian independent press, and the training of Belarusian journalists. The project will allow the broadcasting of specific TV and radio programmes as from February, well ahead of the elections. We believe this high-quality project, which is supported by a Europe-wide team and sharply factors in Belarusian sensitivities – that is, no propaganda, straight news and sheer entertainment – will rightly reach out to large segments of the population.
In addition, the Commission has decided to open a delegation in Minsk but unfortunately the Belarusian authorities have not yet given their agreement. Pending progress on this front, we will post a chargé d’affaires to Kiev who will travel frequently to Minsk.
Finally, last Monday the Commission brought together all international donors to Belarus in order to plan ahead. This meeting has set in motion a common reflection on assistance beyond the election date. This meeting was a signal that assistance and coordination will not dwindle after the election date."@lv13
"Mr President, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner had very much hoped to be with you to discuss Belarus. She has been intensely engaged in developing the Commission’s activities on Belarus since we took office and I am convinced she will not miss the opportunity to discuss Belarus with the Russian Foreign Minister at their meeting that is being held in Vienna today.
In conclusion, let me emphasise that the democratic process in Belarus is likely to be a long process that will eventually succeed only with the support of the population. This is why we must continue our efforts to raise awareness among the Belarusian population at large through support to civil society and facilitation of contacts between the people. As Belarus stands at the crossroads, it is more crucial than ever that we all pool our efforts to implement a common strategy and be ready to react to developments in Belarus as they take place. The Commission remains committed to doing its part.
On behalf of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and the Commission I am pleased to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on the situation in Belarus in the run-up to the 19 March presidential election and on the Commission’s work to support democratisation and to support civil society.
Let me start by saying a few words on the overall situation in Belarus. The Commission is still deeply concerned about the absence of democracy and the lack of respect for human rights in Belarus. This situation has further deteriorated as the election date is nearing and has resulted in a severe quashing of the voice of the opposition and the stifling of the independent press over the last few months.
The fact that an OSCE mission has been invited to observe the presidential election and that a number of contenders to President Lukashenko are likely to be allowed to contest the presidential race is a welcome move, but not sufficient evidence of a functioning democracy. At this juncture, when the OSCE observers have started their work on the ground, it is important that the European Union and the Commission contribute to the smooth functioning of the mission. The European Union’s opinion and reaction will be based on this mission’s report.
In terms of the European Union’s response, you are well aware of the unequivocal message that the European Union conveyed to Belarus and reiterated in the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 30 January: the European Union has stressed the importance it attaches to a democratic election process and has also clearly voiced its resolve to issue targeted sanctions in the event that these elections prove to be fraudulent. To balance this message with a positive note, the European Union has repeated its offer to have closer relations with Belarus, provided that we see convincing progress towards democracy.
Let me now turn to the Commission’s specific action and underline that the Commission has made good on its pledge to raise its role in Belarus. Faced with growing repression and restrictions by the Government of Belarus on foreign assistance to non-governmental bodies, the Commission has stepped up and speeded up such assistance to Belarus. In 2005 alone, up to EUR 8.9 million have been dedicated to democracy and civil society projects. Creative tools have been developed to overcome the hurdles to assistance delivery. We have thus shifted part of our support to NGOs located outside Belarus. The EUR 2.2 million we granted last December to the European Humanitarian University in exile, as well as our support to independent media, are vibrant examples of this novel approach.
In the field of independent media, I am delighted to say that the Commission has been at the forefront of donors’ action. We have started with support to the radio broadcasting of daily news reports to Belarus in both Russian and Belarusian. However, our main achievement is a EUR 2 million media project which is now being launched. It includes radio and television broadcasting, internet activities, support to the Belarusian independent press, and the training of Belarusian journalists. The project will allow the broadcasting of specific TV and radio programmes as from February, well ahead of the elections. We believe this high-quality project, which is supported by a Europe-wide team and sharply factors in Belarusian sensitivities – that is, no propaganda, straight news and sheer entertainment – will rightly reach out to large segments of the population.
In addition, the Commission has decided to open a delegation in Minsk but unfortunately the Belarusian authorities have not yet given their agreement. Pending progress on this front, we will post a chargé d’affaires to Kiev who will travel frequently to Minsk.
Finally, last Monday the Commission brought together all international donors to Belarus in order to plan ahead. This meeting has set in motion a common reflection on assistance beyond the election date. This meeting was a signal that assistance and coordination will not dwindle after the election date."@mt15
"Mijnheer de Voorzitter, commissaris Ferrero-Waldner had hier heel graag met u over Wit-Rusland willen debatteren. Sinds ons aantreden heeft zij zich in de Commissie intensief beziggehouden met het ontwikkelen van activiteiten met het oog op Wit-Rusland, en ik ben ervan overtuigd dat zij vandaag tijdens haar ontmoeting met de Russische minister van Buitenlandse Zaken de gelegenheid niet voorbij zal laten gaan om de kwestie Wit-Rusland aan te snijden.
Concluderend zou ik willen benadrukken dat het democratiseringsproces in Wit-Rusland waarschijnlijk een lange adem zal hebben en dat het alleen kans van slagen heeft als het de steun van de bevolking krijgt. Om die reden moeten we ons ervoor blijven inzetten om het gros van de Wit-Russische bevolking bewuster te maken, door het maatschappelijk middenveld te ondersteunen en door het contact tussen de mensen te bevorderen. Daar Wit-Rusland zich op een keerpunt bevindt, is het nu crucialer dan ooit dat we onze krachten bundelen om een gezamenlijke strategie te implementeren en om alert op de ontwikkelingen in Wit-Rusland te reageren. De Commissie zal zich met overtuiging blijven inzetten voor haar aandeel hierin.
Namens commissaris Ferrero-Waldner en de Commissie moet ik zeggen dat ik blij ben met deze gelegenheid om standpunten met u uit te wisselen over de situatie in Wit-Rusland in de periode voorafgaande aan de presidentsverkiezingen van 19 maart, en over het werk van de Commissie om de democratisering en het maatschappelijk middenveld in dat land te ondersteunen.
Om te beginnen zou ik even stil willen staan bij de algemene situatie in Wit-Rusland. De Commissie is nog steeds ernstig verontrust over het ontbreken van democratie en het gebrek aan respect voor de mensenrechten in Wit-Rusland. In de aanloop naar de verkiezingen is deze situatie nog verder achteruitgegaan, is de oppositie het zwijgen opgelegd en de onafhankelijke pers de afgelopen paar maanden de mond gesnoerd.
Het feit dat een OVSE-missie is uitgenodigd om de presidentsverkiezingen waar te nemen, en dat een aantal tegenstanders van president Loekasjenko waarschijnlijk mee mogen dingen naar het presidentsschap zijn welkome ontwikkelingen, maar ze zijn ontoereikend als bewijs van een functionerende democratie. Op dit ogenblik, nu de OVSE-waarnemers hun veldwerk gestart zijn, is het belangrijk dat de Europese Unie en de Commissie het soepel functioneren van de missie ondersteunen. Het standpunt en de reactie van de Europese Unie zullen op het rapport van deze missie gebaseerd zijn.
Wat de reactie van de Europese Unie betreft bent u op de hoogte van de niet mis te verstane boodschap die de Europese Unie aan Wit-Rusland heeft overgebracht en die zij op de Raad Algemene Zaken en Buitenlandse Betrekkingen van 30 januari herhaald heeft: de Europese Unie heeft nadrukkelijk gesteld dat zij belang hecht aan een democratisch verkiezingsproces, en zij heeft ook duidelijk blijk gegeven van haar vastberadenheid om gerichte sancties uit te vaardigen indien blijkt dat bij deze verkiezingen sprake is geweest van fraude. Als positief tegenwicht van deze boodschap heeft de Europese Unie haar aanbod herhaald om nauwere betrekkingen met Wit-Rusland aan te knopen, mits we op overtuigende wijze kunnen zien dat er sprake is van vooruitgang in de richting van de democratie.
Dan wil ik het nu hebben over de speciale actie van de Commissie, en daarbij onderstrepen dat de Commissie zich heeft gehouden aan haar belofte om haar rol in Wit-Rusland te versterken. Als gevolg van de toenemende onderdrukking en de beperkingen waaraan de regering van Wit-Rusland buitenlandse hulp aan niet-gouvernementele organen gebonden heeft, heeft de Commissie het initiatief genomen die hulp aan Wit-Rusland te bespoedigen. Alleen al in 2005 zijn meer dan 8,9 miljoen euro besteed aan projecten ten behoeve van de democratie en het maatschappelijk middenveld. Er zijn creatieve instrumenten bedacht om de obstakels te omzeilen die hulpverlening in de weg stonden. Daarom hebben we een deel van onze steun verlegd naar NGO’s buiten Wit-Rusland. De 2,2 miljoen euro die we afgelopen december hebben toegekend aan de
in ballingschap, alsook onze steun aan onafhankelijke media, zijn goede voorbeelden van deze nieuwe benadering.
Wat de onafhankelijke media betreft ben ik blij te kunnen zeggen dat de Commissie een voortrekkersrol heeft gespeeld in de donorenactie. We zijn begonnen met steun aan radio-uitzendingen met dagelijkse nieuwsverslagen voor Wit-Rusland in zowel het Russisch als het Wit-Russisch. Onze voornaamste resultaat is echter een mediaproject van 2 miljoen euro dat op het ogenblik van stapel loopt. Het omvat radio- en televisie-uitzendingen, internetactiviteiten, steun aan de Wit-Russische onafhankelijke pers, en de opleiding van Wit-Russische verslaggevers. Dankzij dit project zullen vanaf februari, dus ruim voor de verkiezingen, speciale tv- en radioprogramma’s kunnen worden uitgezonden. Wij denken dat dit kwaliteitsproject, dat de steun heeft van een team waarin de hele Unie vertegenwoordigd is, een project ook waarin terdege rekening wordt gehouden met Wit-Russische gevoeligheden – dat wil zeggen: geen propaganda, nieuws zonder franje en zuiver amusement – terecht grote delen van de samenleving zal bereiken.
Daarnaast heeft de Commissie besloten om een afvaardiging in Minsk te stationeren, maar helaas hebben de Wit-Russische autoriteiten hiermee nog niet ingestemd. In afwachting van vooruitgang aan dit front zullen we een zaakgelastigde in Kiev aanstellen die vaak naar Minsk zal reizen.
Tenslotte heeft de Commissie afgelopen maandag alle internationale donoren van Wit-Rusland bijeengebracht om plannen voor de toekomst te maken. Deze bijeenkomst heeft de aanzet gegeven tot een gezamenlijke discussie over de steun in de periode na de verkiezingen, en hierbij is gebleken dat die steun na de verkiezingen niet zal teruglopen."@nl3
"Mr President, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner had very much hoped to be with you to discuss Belarus. She has been intensely engaged in developing the Commission’s activities on Belarus since we took office and I am convinced she will not miss the opportunity to discuss Belarus with the Russian Foreign Minister at their meeting that is being held in Vienna today.
In conclusion, let me emphasise that the democratic process in Belarus is likely to be a long process that will eventually succeed only with the support of the population. This is why we must continue our efforts to raise awareness among the Belarusian population at large through support to civil society and facilitation of contacts between the people. As Belarus stands at the crossroads, it is more crucial than ever that we all pool our efforts to implement a common strategy and be ready to react to developments in Belarus as they take place. The Commission remains committed to doing its part.
On behalf of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and the Commission I am pleased to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on the situation in Belarus in the run-up to the 19 March presidential election and on the Commission’s work to support democratisation and to support civil society.
Let me start by saying a few words on the overall situation in Belarus. The Commission is still deeply concerned about the absence of democracy and the lack of respect for human rights in Belarus. This situation has further deteriorated as the election date is nearing and has resulted in a severe quashing of the voice of the opposition and the stifling of the independent press over the last few months.
The fact that an OSCE mission has been invited to observe the presidential election and that a number of contenders to President Lukashenko are likely to be allowed to contest the presidential race is a welcome move, but not sufficient evidence of a functioning democracy. At this juncture, when the OSCE observers have started their work on the ground, it is important that the European Union and the Commission contribute to the smooth functioning of the mission. The European Union’s opinion and reaction will be based on this mission’s report.
In terms of the European Union’s response, you are well aware of the unequivocal message that the European Union conveyed to Belarus and reiterated in the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 30 January: the European Union has stressed the importance it attaches to a democratic election process and has also clearly voiced its resolve to issue targeted sanctions in the event that these elections prove to be fraudulent. To balance this message with a positive note, the European Union has repeated its offer to have closer relations with Belarus, provided that we see convincing progress towards democracy.
Let me now turn to the Commission’s specific action and underline that the Commission has made good on its pledge to raise its role in Belarus. Faced with growing repression and restrictions by the Government of Belarus on foreign assistance to non-governmental bodies, the Commission has stepped up and speeded up such assistance to Belarus. In 2005 alone, up to EUR 8.9 million have been dedicated to democracy and civil society projects. Creative tools have been developed to overcome the hurdles to assistance delivery. We have thus shifted part of our support to NGOs located outside Belarus. The EUR 2.2 million we granted last December to the European Humanitarian University in exile, as well as our support to independent media, are vibrant examples of this novel approach.
In the field of independent media, I am delighted to say that the Commission has been at the forefront of donors’ action. We have started with support to the radio broadcasting of daily news reports to Belarus in both Russian and Belarusian. However, our main achievement is a EUR 2 million media project which is now being launched. It includes radio and television broadcasting, internet activities, support to the Belarusian independent press, and the training of Belarusian journalists. The project will allow the broadcasting of specific TV and radio programmes as from February, well ahead of the elections. We believe this high-quality project, which is supported by a Europe-wide team and sharply factors in Belarusian sensitivities – that is, no propaganda, straight news and sheer entertainment – will rightly reach out to large segments of the population.
In addition, the Commission has decided to open a delegation in Minsk but unfortunately the Belarusian authorities have not yet given their agreement. Pending progress on this front, we will post a chargé d’affaires to Kiev who will travel frequently to Minsk.
Finally, last Monday the Commission brought together all international donors to Belarus in order to plan ahead. This meeting has set in motion a common reflection on assistance beyond the election date. This meeting was a signal that assistance and coordination will not dwindle after the election date."@pl16
"Senhor Presidente, a Senhora Comissária Ferrero-Waldner tinha grandes esperanças de poder vir a debater a Bielorrússia com os senhores deputados. Desde que tomámos posse, empenhou-se fortemente no desenvolvimento das actividades da Comissão relacionadas com a Bielorrússia e estou convicto de que não perderá o ensejo de discutir a questão da Bielorrússia com o Ministro russo dos Negócios Estrangeiros na reunião que com ele tem hoje, em Viena.
Para concluir, permitam-me que frise que o processo de democratização da Bielorrússia promete ser um longo processo, que só vingará com o apoio da população. É por isso que temos de prosseguir os nossos esforços de sensibilização da população bielorrussa, mediante o apoio à sociedade civil e a promoção de contactos entre as pessoas. Agora que a Bielorrússia se encontra numa encruzilhada, é mais crucial do que nunca conjugarmos os nossos esforços para levar à prática uma estratégia comum e estarmos prontos para reagir aos desenvolvimentos na Bielorrússia à medida que eles tenham lugar. A Comissão continua empenhada em fazer a sua parte.
Acolho com prazer o ensejo de, em nome da Comissária Ferrero-Waldner e da Comissão, proceder a esta troca de pontos de vista com V. Exas sobre a situação na Bielorrússia em vésperas da eleição presidencial de 19 de Março e o trabalho da Comissão de apoio à democratização e à sociedade civil.
Permitam-me que comece por dizer algumas palavras sobre a situação global na Bielorrússia. A Comissão continua profundamente preocupada com a ausência de democracia e de respeito dos direitos humanos na Bielorrússia. Este quadro conheceu novos agravamentos com a aproximação da data da eleição, que determinou o brutal silenciamento da voz da oposição e uma campanha de repressão da imprensa independente nos últimos meses.
O facto de uma missão da OSCE ter sido convidada a observar a eleição presidencial e a perspectiva provável de vários adversários do Presidente Lukashenko virem a ser autorizados a disputar a corrida presidencial constituem uma mudança bem-vinda, mas não são um índice suficiente de que estejamos perante uma democracia efectiva. Na presente conjuntura, com observadores da OSCE já a trabalhar no terreno, é importante que a União Europeia e a Comissão contribuam para que a missão decorra sem sobressaltos. A posição e a reacção da União Europeia basear-se-ão no respectivo relatório.
No que toca à resposta da União Europeia, os senhores deputados estão perfeitamente inteirados da mensagem inequívoca que a União Europeia transmitiu à Bielorrússia e reiterou no Conselho "Assuntos Gerais e Relações Externas" de 30 de Janeiro: a União Europeia sublinhou a importância que atribui aos processos eleitorais democráticos e manifestou também de modo claro a sua determinação de adoptar sanções selectivas na eventualidade de as presentes eleições virem a revelar-se fraudulentas. Para contrabalançar tal mensagem com uma nota positiva, a União Europeia reafirmou a proposta de estabelecimento de relações mais estreitas com a Bielorrússia, sob condição de assistirmos a progressos convincentes no sentido da democracia.
Permitam-me que me debruce agora sobre a acção específica da Comissão e que frise que a Comissão tem honrado o compromisso de reforçar o seu papel na Bielorrússia. Confrontada com um aumento da repressão e das restrições impostas pelo Governo da Bielorrússia à ajuda externa a organizações não governamentais, a Comissão intensificou e acelerou essa mesma ajuda à Bielorrússia. Só em 2005, canalizaram-se 8,9 milhões de euros para projectos em prol da democracia e da sociedade civil. Desenvolveram-se formas criativas de ultrapassar as barreiras à consumação da ajuda. Assim, transferimos parte da nossa assistência para ONG situadas fora da Bielorrússia. Os 2,2 milhões de euros que atribuímos em Dezembro passado à Universidade Europeia de Humanidades no exílio e o apoio que damos a meios de comunicação independentes são exemplos vibrantes desta nova abordagem.
No domínio dos meios de comunicação social independentes, tenho o enorme prazer de comunicar que a Comissão tem estado na vanguarda da prestação de ajuda. Começámos por apoiar a difusão radiofónica para a Bielorrússia de boletins noticiosos diários em Russo e Bielorrusso. Todavia, a nossa grande realização é um projecto de comunicação social orçado em 2 milhões de euros que está em fase de lançamento. Integra emissão de rádio e televisão, actividades no campo da internet, apoio à imprensa bielorrussa independente e formação de jornalistas bielorrussos. O projecto permitirá a difusão de programas específicos de rádio e televisão a partir de Fevereiro, bem antes das eleições. Acreditamos que, pelo seu valor, este projecto de alta qualidade, que é apoiado por uma equipa à escala europeia e tem em especial atenção as idiossincrasias próprias dos bielorrussos – isto é, exclui qualquer propaganda, sendo estritamente informativo e de entretenimento – conseguirá ter acesso a largos segmentos da população.
A par disso, a Comissão decidiu abrir uma delegação em Minsk, mas infelizmente as autoridades bielorrussas não deram ainda o seu aval para o efeito. Enquanto o processo não avançar, destacaremos para Kiev um encarregado de negócios que se deslocará a Minsk com frequência.
Finalmente, segunda-feira passada a Comissão reuniu todos os doadores internacionais de ajuda à Bielorrússia com o objectivo de planear o futuro. Esta reunião permitiu pôr em marcha uma reflexão comum sobre a ajuda após a data das eleições. Tratou-se de um sinal de que a ajuda e a coordenação não diminuirão após essa data."@pt17
"Mr President, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner had very much hoped to be with you to discuss Belarus. She has been intensely engaged in developing the Commission’s activities on Belarus since we took office and I am convinced she will not miss the opportunity to discuss Belarus with the Russian Foreign Minister at their meeting that is being held in Vienna today.
In conclusion, let me emphasise that the democratic process in Belarus is likely to be a long process that will eventually succeed only with the support of the population. This is why we must continue our efforts to raise awareness among the Belarusian population at large through support to civil society and facilitation of contacts between the people. As Belarus stands at the crossroads, it is more crucial than ever that we all pool our efforts to implement a common strategy and be ready to react to developments in Belarus as they take place. The Commission remains committed to doing its part.
On behalf of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and the Commission I am pleased to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on the situation in Belarus in the run-up to the 19 March presidential election and on the Commission’s work to support democratisation and to support civil society.
Let me start by saying a few words on the overall situation in Belarus. The Commission is still deeply concerned about the absence of democracy and the lack of respect for human rights in Belarus. This situation has further deteriorated as the election date is nearing and has resulted in a severe quashing of the voice of the opposition and the stifling of the independent press over the last few months.
The fact that an OSCE mission has been invited to observe the presidential election and that a number of contenders to President Lukashenko are likely to be allowed to contest the presidential race is a welcome move, but not sufficient evidence of a functioning democracy. At this juncture, when the OSCE observers have started their work on the ground, it is important that the European Union and the Commission contribute to the smooth functioning of the mission. The European Union’s opinion and reaction will be based on this mission’s report.
In terms of the European Union’s response, you are well aware of the unequivocal message that the European Union conveyed to Belarus and reiterated in the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 30 January: the European Union has stressed the importance it attaches to a democratic election process and has also clearly voiced its resolve to issue targeted sanctions in the event that these elections prove to be fraudulent. To balance this message with a positive note, the European Union has repeated its offer to have closer relations with Belarus, provided that we see convincing progress towards democracy.
Let me now turn to the Commission’s specific action and underline that the Commission has made good on its pledge to raise its role in Belarus. Faced with growing repression and restrictions by the Government of Belarus on foreign assistance to non-governmental bodies, the Commission has stepped up and speeded up such assistance to Belarus. In 2005 alone, up to EUR 8.9 million have been dedicated to democracy and civil society projects. Creative tools have been developed to overcome the hurdles to assistance delivery. We have thus shifted part of our support to NGOs located outside Belarus. The EUR 2.2 million we granted last December to the European Humanitarian University in exile, as well as our support to independent media, are vibrant examples of this novel approach.
In the field of independent media, I am delighted to say that the Commission has been at the forefront of donors’ action. We have started with support to the radio broadcasting of daily news reports to Belarus in both Russian and Belarusian. However, our main achievement is a EUR 2 million media project which is now being launched. It includes radio and television broadcasting, internet activities, support to the Belarusian independent press, and the training of Belarusian journalists. The project will allow the broadcasting of specific TV and radio programmes as from February, well ahead of the elections. We believe this high-quality project, which is supported by a Europe-wide team and sharply factors in Belarusian sensitivities – that is, no propaganda, straight news and sheer entertainment – will rightly reach out to large segments of the population.
In addition, the Commission has decided to open a delegation in Minsk but unfortunately the Belarusian authorities have not yet given their agreement. Pending progress on this front, we will post a chargé d’affaires to Kiev who will travel frequently to Minsk.
Finally, last Monday the Commission brought together all international donors to Belarus in order to plan ahead. This meeting has set in motion a common reflection on assistance beyond the election date. This meeting was a signal that assistance and coordination will not dwindle after the election date."@sk18
"Mr President, Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner had very much hoped to be with you to discuss Belarus. She has been intensely engaged in developing the Commission’s activities on Belarus since we took office and I am convinced she will not miss the opportunity to discuss Belarus with the Russian Foreign Minister at their meeting that is being held in Vienna today.
In conclusion, let me emphasise that the democratic process in Belarus is likely to be a long process that will eventually succeed only with the support of the population. This is why we must continue our efforts to raise awareness among the Belarusian population at large through support to civil society and facilitation of contacts between the people. As Belarus stands at the crossroads, it is more crucial than ever that we all pool our efforts to implement a common strategy and be ready to react to developments in Belarus as they take place. The Commission remains committed to doing its part.
On behalf of Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner and the Commission I am pleased to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on the situation in Belarus in the run-up to the 19 March presidential election and on the Commission’s work to support democratisation and to support civil society.
Let me start by saying a few words on the overall situation in Belarus. The Commission is still deeply concerned about the absence of democracy and the lack of respect for human rights in Belarus. This situation has further deteriorated as the election date is nearing and has resulted in a severe quashing of the voice of the opposition and the stifling of the independent press over the last few months.
The fact that an OSCE mission has been invited to observe the presidential election and that a number of contenders to President Lukashenko are likely to be allowed to contest the presidential race is a welcome move, but not sufficient evidence of a functioning democracy. At this juncture, when the OSCE observers have started their work on the ground, it is important that the European Union and the Commission contribute to the smooth functioning of the mission. The European Union’s opinion and reaction will be based on this mission’s report.
In terms of the European Union’s response, you are well aware of the unequivocal message that the European Union conveyed to Belarus and reiterated in the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 30 January: the European Union has stressed the importance it attaches to a democratic election process and has also clearly voiced its resolve to issue targeted sanctions in the event that these elections prove to be fraudulent. To balance this message with a positive note, the European Union has repeated its offer to have closer relations with Belarus, provided that we see convincing progress towards democracy.
Let me now turn to the Commission’s specific action and underline that the Commission has made good on its pledge to raise its role in Belarus. Faced with growing repression and restrictions by the Government of Belarus on foreign assistance to non-governmental bodies, the Commission has stepped up and speeded up such assistance to Belarus. In 2005 alone, up to EUR 8.9 million have been dedicated to democracy and civil society projects. Creative tools have been developed to overcome the hurdles to assistance delivery. We have thus shifted part of our support to NGOs located outside Belarus. The EUR 2.2 million we granted last December to the European Humanitarian University in exile, as well as our support to independent media, are vibrant examples of this novel approach.
In the field of independent media, I am delighted to say that the Commission has been at the forefront of donors’ action. We have started with support to the radio broadcasting of daily news reports to Belarus in both Russian and Belarusian. However, our main achievement is a EUR 2 million media project which is now being launched. It includes radio and television broadcasting, internet activities, support to the Belarusian independent press, and the training of Belarusian journalists. The project will allow the broadcasting of specific TV and radio programmes as from February, well ahead of the elections. We believe this high-quality project, which is supported by a Europe-wide team and sharply factors in Belarusian sensitivities – that is, no propaganda, straight news and sheer entertainment – will rightly reach out to large segments of the population.
In addition, the Commission has decided to open a delegation in Minsk but unfortunately the Belarusian authorities have not yet given their agreement. Pending progress on this front, we will post a chargé d’affaires to Kiev who will travel frequently to Minsk.
Finally, last Monday the Commission brought together all international donors to Belarus in order to plan ahead. This meeting has set in motion a common reflection on assistance beyond the election date. This meeting was a signal that assistance and coordination will not dwindle after the election date."@sl19
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Herr talman! Kommissionsledamot Benita Ferrero-Waldner hade verkligen hoppats på att få vara med er för att diskutera Vitryssland. Hon har engagerat sig starkt för att utveckla kommissionens insatser för Vitryssland sedan vi tillträdde och jag är övertygad om att hon inte kommer att missa möjligheten att diskutera Vitryssland med den ryske utrikesministern vid deras möte som hålls i Wien i dag.
Låt mig sammanfattningsvis betona att den demokratiska processen i Vitryssland förmodligen kommer att bli en lång process som i slutändan endast kommer att lyckas med befolkningens stöd. Därför måste vi fortsätta våra ansträngningar att informera den vitryska befolkningen i stort genom stöd till det civila samhället och genom att underlätta kontakten mellan människor. Eftersom Vitryssland står vid en vägkorsning är det viktigare än någonsin att vi alla förenar våra ansträngningar för att genomföra en gemensam strategi och är beredda att reagera på utvecklingen i Vitryssland när den kommer. Kommissionen står fast vid sitt åtagande att göra sin del.
På kommissionsledamot Ferrero-Waldners och kommissionens vägnar är jag glad att få denna möjlighet att utbyta åsikter med er om situationen i Vitryssland inför presidentvalet den 19 mars och om kommissionens arbete att stödja demokratiseringen och det civila samhället.
Låt mig få börja med att säga ett par ord om den övergripande situationen i Vitryssland. Kommissionen är fortfarande djupt oroad över avsaknaden av demokrati och bristen på respekt för de mänskliga rättigheterna i Vitryssland. Situationen har förvärrats i och med att valdagen närmar sig och det har resulterat i att oppositionen har kuvats hårt och att den oberoende pressen har kvävts under de senaste månaderna.
Att en OSSE-delegation har bjudits in att övervaka presidentvalet och att ett antal utmanare till president Lukasjenko troligtvis kommer att tillåtas vara med i presidentvalet är ett välkommet steg, men inte ett tillräckligt bevis på en fungerande demokrati. I denna avgörande situation, när OSSE-observatörerna har påbörjat sitt fältarbete, är det viktigt att EU och kommissionen bidrar till att uppdraget fungerar smidigt. EU:s ståndpunkt och reaktion kommer att grundas på delegationens rapport.
När det gäller EU:s reaktion är ni väl medvetna om det tydliga budskap som EU framförde till Vitryssland och återupprepade i rådet (allmänna frågor och yttre förbindelser) den 30 januari: EU har betonat den vikt man fäster vid en demokratisk valprocess och man har också tydligt sagt att man tänker utfärda riktade sanktioner i händelse av att dessa val visar sig vara otillförlitliga. För att uppväga detta budskap med något positivt har EU upprepat sitt erbjudande att ha närmare förbindelser med Vitryssland, förutsatt att vi ser övertygande framsteg i demokratifrågan.
Låt mig nu gå vidare till kommissionens specifika åtgärder och understryka att kommissionen har hållit sitt löfte att bygga upp sin roll i Vitryssland. På grund av ökat förtryck och restriktioner från den vitryska regeringens sida av utländskt bistånd till icke-statliga organ, har kommissionen ökat och påskyndat denna typ av bistånd till Vitryssland. Bara under 2005 har upp till 8,9 miljoner euro avsatts för demokratiprojekt och projekt för det civila samhället. Kreativa verktyg har utvecklats för att övervinna hindren för att ge bistånd. Vi har flyttat över en del av vårt stöd till frivilligorganisationer som ligger utanför Vitryssland. De 2,2 miljoner euro som vi i december förra året gav Europeiska humanistiska universitetet i exil, liksom vårt stöd till oberoende massmedier, är levande exempel på denna nya strategi.
När det gäller oberoende massmedier gläder det mig att säga att kommissionen har gått i täten för bidragsgivarnas insatser. Vi har börjat med stöd till dagliga radiosändningar av nyheter till Vitryssland både på ryska och vitryska. Men vårt huvudsakliga resultat är ett medieprojekt på 2 miljoner euro som nu sätts igång. Det inkluderar radio- och TV-sändningar, Internetaktiviteter, stöd till Vitrysslands oberoende press och utbildning av vitryska journalister. Projektet kommer att möjliggöra sändningar av specifika TV- och radioprogram från och med februari, långt före valen. Vi anser att detta högkvalitativa projekt, som stöds av en alleuropeisk grupp och som uppfattas som mycket viktigt i Vitryssland – det vill säga, ingen propaganda, sanningsenliga nyheter och ren underhållning – med rätta kommer att nå stora delar av befolkningen.
Dessutom har kommissionen beslutat att inrätta en delegation i Minsk men dessvärre har de vitryska myndigheterna fortfarande inte gett sitt tillstånd. I avvaktan på framsteg på detta område kommer vi att placera en chargé d’affaires i Kiev som med jämna mellanrum kommer att resa till Minsk.
Slutligen kallade kommissionen i måndags samman alla internationella bidragsgivare till Vitryssland för att planera framåt. Detta möte har gett en gemensam tankeställare om bistånd efter valet. Mötet var ett tecken på att biståndet och samordningen inte kommer att försvinna efter valet."@sv21
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