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Ukrainian journalists in NATO headquarters in Brussels
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On Sep.24-28 2006, a group of 17 Ukrainian journalists - representing various print and electronic media from across Ukraine - participated in a tour organized by the Polish foundation Partnership for Democracy. The US Consulate from Krakow, as a member of the Foundation Programming Board, organized a 4-day long program in Brussels filled with visits and briefings at NATO, European Commission, European Parliament, Polish Mission to the EU, US/EU Mission, Universite Libre de Bruxelles and meetings with Polish and Ukrainian media correspondents in Brussels. The journalists were able ask many questions concerning the relations between Ukraine and NATO and the EU. The journalists, except for one still hesitating, support both NATO and EU membership for Ukraine. The group was particularly frustrated, therefore, to learn on September 26 that Bulgaria and Romania will join the EU on January 1, 2007. Disillusionment prevailed that day with questions sometimes verging on hostility towards the EU "Empire".
At the European Parliament visit, the group observed the decision process based on constant negotiations, dialogue and compromise - important lessons for Ukrainian democracy. The visit at the EP finished on a happy note when the EU Press officer took the whole group to the plenary hall and described the parliamentary session in 2004 when all EU deputies were wearing orange scarves in support of Ukrainian democracy.
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