Life after the Soviet Union

Remembering why democracy, freedom and human rights are at the foundation of the EU

As we mark the 20-year anniversary of the fall of the Soviet Union, Europe faces an economic crisis unlike any seen since the great depression. In times of economic uncertainty and hardship, people gripped by insecurity and desperation can become more susceptible to radical politicians promising lofty accomplishments. Yet history has shown that such utopian promises are never realized and what in fact is attained is far from the ambitions expressed.

Eighty years ago democracy had fallen out of favour, slurred by those promising swift and positive changes. Yet what came about plunged Europe into a devastatingly horrible war, creating a hell on earth, and resulting in the division of Europe for nearly fifty years.

Since 1991 those countries which were once occupied by the Soviet Union or Soviet-propped communist dictatorships have changed drastically. Nations which were once dominated by governments that did not respect human rights, freedom and democracy are now Member States of the European Union and in many ways are exemplary members.

Yet the success story of these nations regaining their sovereignty and self-determination should also stand as a warning and lesson for the future generations of Europe. This history must be remembered as a reminder of why democracy, freedom and human rights are the foundation of the EU.

Avoiding history repeating itself

While promising great accomplishments and manipulating the desperations of the public, the Soviet Union in fact stripped its citizens of their rights. It condemned millions to their deaths and to forced labour in gulag camps. While it propagated an idyllic vision, in reality it exploited and enslaved its populations.

"While the intensity of political repressions did change from the time of Stalin to the end of the Soviet Union in 1991, the truth is that, up until its dissolution, the Soviet Union ruined lives and oppressed its citizens," said Latvian MEP and organizer of a 7 March seminar Life After the Soviet Union, Sandra Kalniete. "It's important that future generations understand why the founding principles of the European Union are so important, because without respect and love for democracy, human rights and personal freedoms, history has the potential to repeat itself," added Mrs. Kalniete, who was born in Siberia to parents exiled and forced to work in Soviet labour camps.

A common heritage

The memory of Europe's history is the common heritage of all Europeans, today and for future generations.

In a video message to participants at the seminar, Joseph Daul, Chairman of the EPP Group, said: "The last 20 years have been the best years of European history. After nearly five decades, Europe was able to re-unite. Eastern European and the Baltic countries once separated from the rest of Europe by an Iron Curtain returned to where they had always belonged - to Europe.

During the past 20 years we have witnessed tremendous reforms in Eastern Europe and the Baltic states. These once captive nations have reaffirmed their commitment to European values with dedication and determination. Today these countries are full members of the European Union, and can be held up as an example for all of Europe to follow. I am proud of this and would like to emphasize that there is no longer any reason to talk about an 'old' and 'new' Europe.

Since 2004 Europe is whole and reunited, a Union where the strongest provides a helping hand to the weakest. Solidarity and cooperation are the founding principles we hold dear in our hearts."