Press Release
13/01/2005Schuman Medal awarded to Natalya Estemirova and Sergey Kovalev, Human rights activists
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The medals were presented today, 13 January, 2005, by Group Chairman Hans-Gert Poettering who praised both individuals for their committed work over many years promoting the respect of human rights in Chechnya and the whole of Russia. Poettering said that the two activists were totally committed to their work and the EPP-ED Group strongly supported them and fully appreciated the fact that they often worked in difficult and dangerous circumstances.
Responding to the award Mrs Natalya Estemirova said that unfortunately the situation in Chechnya was getting worse all the time. Assasinations and false imprisonments were common features of everyday life. She appreciated the honour of receiving the Schuman medal and said she would continue her work, which was more than ever necessary, to help protect the human dignity of the people of Chechnya.
Mr Sergey Kovalev, said that he was happy to receive the Schuman medal because Robert Schuman saw the great need for European and global integration as we all belong to one humanity: The problems of the Russian Federation could not be hidden away. Respect for human rights in Russia must be a concern for the whole of Europe.
Speaking at a press conference with the two Schuman laurates, Bernd Posselt MEP, said that he was delighted to be able to nominate the two guests to receive the Schuman medal and indicated that the EPP-ED Group would continue to support respect for human rights everywhere, including Chechnya and Russia.
Camille Eurlings MEP, Chairman of the EU-Russia interparliamentary delegation, said that the award of the Schuman medal was a sign of our great respect for the work of the two human rights activists and he called for a critical engagement in the development of relations with Russia.
The Schuman medal has been awarded to personalities who have promoted European integration or who have made a contribution to human rights situations throughout the world.The medal has been awarded to: the Belgrade radio station, B2 92, Mrs Elena Bonner-Sakharov and to Martin Lee, Leader of the democratic opposition in Hong Kong.
For further information contact: Robert A.Fitzhenry, tel: +32 475 493356
