The Day of Ukrainian Reforms in the Council of Europe

(3 October 2016)

Opening session

Statement by Ambassador Katrin Kivi

Permanent Representative of Estonia

Chairperson of the Committee of Ministers

Dear Minister, dear Deputy Secretary General, distinguished guests, I would like to welcome all participants and thank the Ukrainian authorities for their invitation to this event.

It is widely known that the Council of Europe Action Plan for Ukraine 2015-2017 is the most ambitious action plan ever adopted by the Committee of Ministers. This shows the importance which our Organisation attaches to supporting the ambitious reform agenda of the Ukrainian authorities. My country, Estonia, is among the many member States which have contributed to its financing.

Unsurprisingly, the Committee of Ministers attaches particular importance to the implementation of the Action Plan and to the achievement of the objectives set in it. Last Spring, a delegation of the Ministers’ Deputies, comprising ten ambassadors, made a visit to Ukraine in order to gather first-hand information about the then state of implementation of the Action plan.

They met with representatives of the authorities and civil society – including some of you - to discuss the key areas of action set out in the Plan. The delegation was impressed by the dynamism and commitment of the people they met. In its report to the Deputies, the delegation confirmed that the Action plan offers the Ukrainian authorities with direct and flexible access to the Council of Europe expertise in a range of areas that are crucial for the success of the ongoing reforms. I will only mention the assistance provided regarding human rights protection, the independence of the judiciary, the fight against corruption and the media. 

Last month, the Rapporteur Group on Democracy of the Ministers’ Deputies examined a Progress review report covering the implementation of the Action Plan from January 2015 to June 2016. It will continue its discussion tomorrow before reporting to the Committee.

When urging Ukraine to make further efforts in the implementation of the Action Plan, we never forget what a difficult time the country is currently experiencing. The Committee of Ministers attaches equal importance to the ongoing conflict, the violation of territorial integrity, and the resulting deterioration of human rights and overall security. Since the illegal annexation of Crimea at the beginning of 2014, the Committee of Ministers has addressed the issue a number of times and continues to do so until the peace, security and territorial integrity of Ukraine are restored.

Developing a democratic society in line with Council of Europe standards, both in legislation and in practice, is a long term effort which requires determination, patience and above all dedication. Further steps are needed to achieve this goal, including from the side of the international community. Nearly 20 million Euros are still to be found to cover the overall budget of the Action Plan. Today’s event will provide us with updated information on the progress in reforms targeted in the Action Plan. I hope that this will also contribute in encouraging member States and others to consider further voluntary contributions to its financing. Thank you for your attention.