EC Delegation Kyiv, Press Release

October 28, 2004.

    Declaration by the Heads of Mission of the European Union in Kyiv on the presidential election process in Ukraine
    *** The European Union has underlined to the Ukrainian authorities on a regular basis the importance of holding free and fair presidential elections. On the occasion of the last interim report before the elections of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, the Heads of Mission of the European Union in Kyiv want to reiterate the EU position and to express their concerns.
    
    The 2004 presidential election represents one of the most important events in Ukraine since independence. Whether Ukrainians are allowed to exercise their right to a free and fair vote and have their free expression of political will respected will significantly influence Ukraine’s strategic course for the next decade.
    
    The conduct of this election offers Ukraine the opportunity to accelerate its development as a stable, independent, democratic, and prosperous country that is ready to move from cooperation to closer integration with the European Union. An independent Ukraine which respects human rights and the rule of law, while maintaining mutually beneficial relations with its neighbours is in the interest of the European Union.
    
    We regret that the campaign to date has given cause for serious concerns as to Ukraine’s compliance with all relevant international standards as documented by all ODIHR interim reports. The disruption of opposition rallies, problems for independent media, harassment of grass roots organizations, misuse of “administrative resources” and other serious violations cast doubt on the Ukrainian government’s commitment to its democratic obligations towards the European Union.
    
    The European Union has urged the Ukrainian authorities on a regular basis to end the ongoing violations of democratic norms, and allow Ukrainians to choose freely. We repeat that call today.
    
    Let there be no doubt that we remain committed to support Ukraine’s future progress towards closer integration with the EU. We are prepared to work closely with any candidate who wins in a free and fair contest.
    
    We call on all Ukrainian citizens to exercise their right to vote in a spirit of tolerance and mutual respect and seize the opportunity presented by the election to strengthen their nation's rightful place in the community of democratic nations. You deserve to be allowed to choose freely – and have your choice respected.