Csaba Sógor: National minorities are constituent factors in the state, not a “problem” in need of a quick solution
On Wednesday, April 17th the European Parliament discussed the 2012 reports on Western Balkan countries. Regarding Serbia and Kosovo, DAHR MEP Csaba Sógor expressed his opinion that a basic condition for the integration of these countries into the European community should be the satisfactory settlement of the situation of national minorities.
“I was glad to read that the proposal not just only welcomes the legal framework regarding minorities, but it also lists the shortcomings: it stresses the importance of proper representation and the right to education in one’s mother tongue. Integrating Western Balkan countries is not possible without a satisfactory and durable solution to minority issues. I find it peculiar, that the European Union disregards problems in the member states to which it rightfully demands solutions from pre-accession countries. Citizens who are part of a national minority are also citizens of the EU. I think it is time we were no longer treated as a threat to national security or a stability-threatening factor. Stepping up against our discrimination should be an EU priority. I hope no one has the illusion that minority issues can be permanently solved before the accession to the European Union, and that these never have to be put on the agenda again. National minorities are constituent factors in the state, not a problem in need of a quick solution. ”
Regarding the integration of Kosovo, MEP Csaba Sógor believes that, again, the key is in solving minority issues. “There are five states, which haven’t yet recognised Kosovo as an independent state. A common trait in these countries is that in the territories of these states there are numerous ethnic minorities. I think it is crucial to implement the Ahtisaari plan point by point, and make sure Serbians from Kosovo get their cultural and territorial autonomy. Then perhaps not only these five, but the other member states as well may follow the example the successful minority policy of Kososvo.”
Regarding the integration of Kosovo, MEP Csaba Sógor believes that, again, the key is in solving minority issues. “There are five states, which haven’t yet recognised Kosovo as an independent state. A common trait in these countries is that in the territories of these states there are numerous ethnic minorities. I think it is crucial to implement the Ahtisaari plan point by point, and make sure Serbians from Kosovo get their cultural and territorial autonomy. Then perhaps not only these five, but the other member states as well may follow the example the successful minority policy of Kososvo.”
