In their collaborative piece, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and Marija Pejčinović Burić underscore the paramount importance of defending democratic principles amidst Europe’s struggle against autocracy. They draw upon Robert Schuman’s vision of incremental progress as the guiding ethos of European integration, emphasizing the transformative power of concrete achievements over time.
Belarus’ Aspiration for European Values
For Belarusians, the path to Europe traverses through Strasbourg, where the Council of Europe champions human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Despite Belarus never being a member state, the Council’s engagement with Belarusian democratic forces underscores its commitment to nurturing democratic aspirations within the country.
Council of Europe’s Role in Belarus
The Council’s innovative Contact Group with Belarusian democratic forces signifies a pivotal shift in supporting democratic movements amidst political turmoil. By fostering dialogue and collaboration with Belarusians sidelined by the current regime, the Contact Group sets a precedent for international solidarity in advancing democratic values.
Empowering Belarusian Voices
Central to the Council’s efforts is empowering Belarusians to reclaim their place in the European community by dismantling barriers to democracy. Through targeted actions, including support for civil society, independent media, and political prisoners, the Council aims to catalyze meaningful change and bring Belarus back into the European fold.
A Shared Journey Towards a European Future
As Belarus navigates its path towards democratic reform, international solidarity and steadfast commitment to European values remain indispensable. Tsikhanouskaya and Pejčinović Burić affirm that despite the challenges ahead, the shared vision of a truly European Belarus anchored in human rights and democracy is worth striving for, one step at a time.
SOURCE: Ref Image from MSN
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