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Statement on Introduction of House resolution by
Helsinki Commission Chairman Rep. Christopher H. Smith (R-NJ)
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Washington, D.C., Wednesday, May 5, 2004
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Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ)
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Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to join Rep. Hyde, Chairman of the
International Relations Committee, in sponsoring an important resolution
urging Ukraine to ensure a democratic, transparent, and fair election
process for the upcoming presidential election. By urging the Ukrainian
authorities to abide by their freely undertaken OSCE commitments on
democratic elections, this resolution emphasizes our commitment to the
Ukrainian people and the goal of Ukraine's integration into the Western
community of nations.
As Chairman of the Helsinki Commission, I have been a steadfast
supporter of human rights and democracy in Ukraine, and I value independent
Ukraine's contribution to security and stability in Europe. The stakes in
the upcoming elections are high, not only with respect to the outcome, but
also as a fundamental indicator of Ukraine's democratic development.
Recent events have dramatically underscored the need for this clear
statement of resolve to support a truly democratic process in Ukraine. The
pre-election environment in Ukraine has been discouraging, with examples of
obstacles to free assembly and free speech, the limiting of access to Radio
Liberty, Voice of America and other international broadcasts, and
substantial transgressions in recent parliamentary by-elections and mayoral
elections.
Mr. Speaker, the most blatant of these took place just a few weeks
ago in the city of Mukacheve. These elections witnessed violence,
intimidation, fraud and other massive violations both of the electoral code
and any standards of civilized human behavior. The mayoral elections have
been roundly and rightly criticized by the United States, Europe, and the
OSCE. Many observers fear that Mukacheve is a harbinger of things to come.
As Chairman of the US delegation to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, I join
OSCE PA President Bruce George in calling upon Ukrainian President Kuchma
to ensure a proper investigation of the violations which took place and to
rectify the situation so that the will of the voters is realized.
Mr. Speaker, Ukraine remains at a crossroads. Developments with
respect to democracy have been discouraging over the last few years. The
elections represent a real chance for Ukraine to get back on the road to
full respect for the tenets of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
The United States stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine as they
strive to achieve these essential goals. [Rep. Chris Smith]
FOR PERSONAL AND ACADEMIC
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