As the halls of the Council of Europe reverberated with discussions on Kosovo, Greek Deputy Dora Bakoyannis stepped into the spotlight, offering a perspective that echoed both pragmatism and empathy. In a nuanced address, she addressed criticisms of her support for Kosovo while emphasizing the importance of its inclusion within the Council of Europe.
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| Greek Deputy Dora Bakoyannis in a public speech (archive) |
Bakoyannis acknowledged the sensitivity of Kosovo's minority rights issue, drawing a sharp contrast to the Serbian monastery question. She emphasized that while nothing can guarantee minority rights entirely, Kosovo's commitments, signed by Pristina authorities, must be upheld. Her stance was clear: Kosovo's accession should proceed, with any disputes regarding minority property rights to be resolved in international courts. She emphasized that the creation of the association was crucial, highlighting it as a key criterion for progress.
However, it was Bakoyannis' personal reflection that added depth to her discourse. She candidly admitted to facing criticism and attacks for her handling of the Kosovo issue, particularly from nations that do not recognize Kosovo's independence. Yet, she urged all to demonstrate honesty and courage, advocating for a resolution devoid of preconditions. She acknowledged that opposition to Kosovo's recognition is a stance she understands but implored for a more courageous approach from dissenting voices.
Bakoyannis further revealed that her opinion could have guided the drafting of the report if the Committee of Ministers had sought it. Her words underscored the weight of her conviction and the potential impact of her perspective on shaping the final report.
In a show of solidarity, other deputies echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need to embrace Kosovo within the Council of Europe. They emphasized that the organization's role is to ensure respect for democracy, rule of law, and human rights, unifying two million people under its umbrella. They praised the progress made regarding the Visoki Dečani Monastery and stressed the importance of not conflating the Council of Europe's role with other organizations.
Their collective message was clear: Kosovo's accession is not merely a matter of geopolitical recognition but a step towards fostering democracy and human rights. They urged support for the launched report and the rejection of amendments that would disrupt this delicate balance, advocating for Kosovo's warm embrace into the Council of Europe.
In this debate, amidst differing opinions and political tensions, what emerged was a call for principled action, grounded in empathy and a commitment to inclusive democracy. It highlighted the power of dialogue and cooperation in navigating complex international issues, reaffirming the Council of Europe's role as a beacon of unity and progress. As the debate continues, it is these voices of reason and compassion that offer hope for a brighter future, where inclusion triumphs over division.