AEGEE calls for democracy in Ukraine

AEGEE, the European Students' Forum, is alarmed to learn that the presidential elections in Ukraine were carried out in a dubious manner. We fully subscribe to the concerns expressed by OSCE, the Council of Europe, the European Parliament about the abuse of state resources to influence the outcome, and call for an urgent review.

AEGEE-Europe, which has thirteen local groups in Ukraine, declares its solidarity with its members, many of whom are among the demonstrators calling for the government to respect democracy and the rule of law. As one honorary member of AEGEE-Kyiv explained, "It's a historical moment not only for my country, but for all of Europe. It's about the right to free and fair elections... we are not going to let it happen."

We were especially troubled to hear that Ukrainian security forces have already clashed with demonstrators. We call for all parties to act calmly and peacefully in this crisis, and hope for a non-violent resolution of the present impasse.

AEGEE promotes democracy and the rule of law throughout Europe. We declare our support and solidarity for all the Ukrainians campaigning for their right to live in a constitutional state. Freedom of speech and voting should be free of pressure and control from the state authorities, but should be supported, cherished and encouraged, for the benefit and development of the society across the whole European continent.

"We, the members of AEGEE, declare our faith in a Europe standing for liberty, democracy, and respect for human rights and the rule of law."
(AEGEE, Statement of Principles)

The European Students' Forum calls on the European Council to investigate, help to ascertain the true results of the election, work for a swift, peaceful and just resolution to this crisis, and guarantee the future of democracy in Ukraine.

AEGEE is one of Europe's largest interdisciplinary and voluntary student associations, operating without being linked to any political party,promoting a unified
Europe,cross-border co-operation, communication and integration in academic environment, and at the same time striving to create an open and tolerant society by involving students and young graduates in valuable projects and discussions over the topics of importance for the communities they live in. It is represented in 260 university cities, in 42 countries all around Europe and has about 17000 members.

For more information:
 
Virag Szabo
Director for Public Relations
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European Students' Forum (AEGEE)
Rue Nestor de Tičre 15
B-1030 Brussels
(t) +32 2 245 2300
(m) +32 484422248
(fax) +32 2 245 6260
www.aegee.org

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