The observance of minority rights – a basic condition for the rapprochement between Europe and Ukraine
On 27 February the European Parliament adopted a resolution regarding
the situation in Ukraine. In the explanation of his vote, MEP Csaba
Sógor pointed out that in times of crises, the importance of balanced
interethnic relations grows exponentially. In his opinion, the respect
towards the cultures and linguistic rights of national minorities must
play a significant role in the system of conditionalities set up in
exchange for EU support.
In the debate preceding the written document, the
MEPs expressed high hopes related to the international consultancy that
will support Ukraine in adopting political and economic reforms. In this
regard many pointed out the responsibility of the European Union in
ensuring that the unity, sovereignty and independence of the country is
accompanied by the respect for regional, cultural and linguistic
diversity. Csaba Sógor’s opinion in the matter can be read below:
”Following the last few days’ events from Ukraine many expressed their concern regarding the withdrawal of the law ensuring the use of minority languages. I agree with the point of view, according to which only a multi-ethnic and multi-linguistic Ukraine can take the path towards Europe, a country in which the rights of national minorities are ensured, observed and strengthened. I especially want to salute the call of the activists and intellectuals from Limburg „Speak Russian for a day” meant to show solidarity towards the Russians from Eastern and Southern Ukraine. The Hungarian and Romanian minority form Ukraine also needs such solidarity.
Many have declared that the abolition of the minority language use law endangers the social stability and internal cohesion of the country. I am extremely glad that international politics begins to recognise that the mutual respect and recognition between a minority and a majority in general is based on commonly established rules.”
”Following the last few days’ events from Ukraine many expressed their concern regarding the withdrawal of the law ensuring the use of minority languages. I agree with the point of view, according to which only a multi-ethnic and multi-linguistic Ukraine can take the path towards Europe, a country in which the rights of national minorities are ensured, observed and strengthened. I especially want to salute the call of the activists and intellectuals from Limburg „Speak Russian for a day” meant to show solidarity towards the Russians from Eastern and Southern Ukraine. The Hungarian and Romanian minority form Ukraine also needs such solidarity.
Many have declared that the abolition of the minority language use law endangers the social stability and internal cohesion of the country. I am extremely glad that international politics begins to recognise that the mutual respect and recognition between a minority and a majority in general is based on commonly established rules.”
