GREEN BALKAN NEWS LETTER #2

November 2012

POWERED BY THE EUROPEAN GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 Mahmut Boynudelik GREEN BALKAN NOVEMBER 2012 Yeşiller TR NEWSLETTER #2 Executive Board Member NOVEMBER 2012

Dear friends, and Equality and Democracy Party:

It's been almost a year since the establishment of the Balkan More than unification! Network and exciting developments have taken place. Green thinking and activities are getting stronger in the , alks between Green Party Conferences, workshops and as you can see from this newsletter. From our side, the new of Turkey and Equality and meetings were organized in electronic platform which is up and running gives us hope Democracy Party (EDP) various cities to discuss the critical for improved communication and exchange of ideas, the for a further collaboration subjects such as Green Economy, Topen for a probable unification Identity Politics, Women Rights, development of common campaigns and the enhancement of started almost one year ago. The Agriculture, etc. Small meetings our presence in the Balkans. We certainly expect that the two parties first organized a were organized with target groups upcoming meeting in will strengthen existing ties Democracy Conference in Istanbul such as LGBT, youth, ecology within the Network and will contribute to further Olga Kikou Ahmet Atil Aşici in order to understand each movements, women’s rights cooperation among the different green parties in the region. Ecologists Greens Yeşiller, others’ approach to urgent activists, religiously sensitive Turkey political issues. During this groups to discuss their opinions. Olga Kikou and Ahmet Atil Aşici conference many intellectuals and Coordinators, Balkan Network academics were invited and they The new party is scheduled to all agreed on the urgent need for formally establish itself on the creation of a democratic- November 25, 2012. Hundreds of pluralistic alternative to AKP intellectuals, journalists and Government. activists have declared their support for the new party. More Greens and EDP aimed to fulfill than 2000 people expressed their this gap in the political arena of support only in one week’s time. Turkey, thus their intention was to The draft party constitution and form a new broader program are being openly than mere unification of these discussed among supporters in a existing parties. The focus of this very transparent and participatory new movement was to combine way. Social media is commonly libertarian left wing tradition, used for this purpose and which EDP represents, with the especially young people are ecology activists and the Green encouraged to join and be a part movement. Regional fora were of this new green and left party. organized in 35 provinces all around the country to discuss hot topics of democracy and ecology. POWERED BY THE Thousands of people attended these fora and shared their [email protected] enthusiasm towards forming a new political alternative.

Greens and EDP simultaneously held their congresses in June 2012 and declared their will for EUROPEANGREENPARTY unification and the formation of a www.europeangreens.eu new party in autumn 2012. All summer long a joint committee worked on the draft constitution and program of the new party, contacted hundreds of renowned This publication has been made possible with the academics, journalists and support of the Green Institute, Greece activists all over the country, Eleftherias Square 14, 10553 Athens, Greece worked on a plan to assure the Tel.-fax: +30 210 3242861 financial structure of the new [email protected] party and prepared P.R. road map. www.greeninstitute.gr Various camps were organized to familiarize both party members and independent individuals. 03 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 Mahmut Boynudelik GREEN BALKAN NOVEMBER 2012 Yeşiller TR NEWSLETTER #2 Executive Board Member NOVEMBER 2012

Dear friends, Greens and Equality and Democracy Party:

It's been almost a year since the establishment of the Balkan More than unification! Network and exciting developments have taken place. Green thinking and activities are getting stronger in the Balkans, alks between Green Party Conferences, workshops and as you can see from this newsletter. From our side, the new of Turkey and Equality and meetings were organized in electronic platform which is up and running gives us hope Democracy Party (EDP) various cities to discuss the critical for improved communication and exchange of ideas, the for a further collaboration subjects such as Green Economy, openT for a probable unification Identity Politics, Women Rights, development of common campaigns and the enhancement of started almost one year ago. The Agriculture, etc. Small meetings our presence in the Balkans. We certainly expect that the two parties first organized a were organized with target groups upcoming meeting in Athens will strengthen existing ties Democracy Conference in Istanbul such as LGBT, youth, ecology within the Network and will contribute to further Olga Kikou Ahmet Atil Aşici in order to understand each movements, women’s rights cooperation among the different green parties in the region. Ecologists Greens Yeşiller, others’ approach to urgent activists, religiously sensitive Greece Turkey political issues. During this groups to discuss their opinions. Olga Kikou and Ahmet Atil Aşici conference many intellectuals and Coordinators, Balkan Network academics were invited and they The new party is scheduled to all agreed on the urgent need for formally establish itself on the creation of a democratic- November 25, 2012. Hundreds of pluralistic alternative to AKP intellectuals, journalists and Government. activists have declared their support for the new party. More Greens and EDP aimed to fulfill than 2000 people expressed their this gap in the political arena of support only in one week’s time. Turkey, thus their intention was to The draft party constitution and form a new political party broader program are being openly than mere unification of these discussed among supporters in a existing parties. The focus of this very transparent and participatory new movement was to combine way. Social media is commonly libertarian left wing tradition, used for this purpose and which EDP represents, with the especially young people are ecology activists and the Green encouraged to join and be a part movement. Regional fora were of this new green and left party. organized in 35 provinces all around the country to discuss hot topics of democracy and ecology. POWERED BY THE EUROPEAN GREEN PARTY Thousands of people attended these fora and shared their [email protected] enthusiasm towards forming a new political alternative.

Greens and EDP simultaneously held their congresses in June 2012 and declared their will for EUROPEANGREENPARTY unification and the formation of a www.europeangreens.eu new party in autumn 2012. All summer long a joint committee worked on the draft constitution and program of the new party, contacted hundreds of renowned This publication has been made possible with the academics, journalists and support of the Green Institute, Greece activists all over the country, Eleftherias Square 14, 10553 Athens, Greece worked on a plan to assure the Tel.-fax: +30 210 3242861 financial structure of the new [email protected] party and prepared P.R. road map. www.greeninstitute.gr Various camps were organized to familiarize both party members and independent individuals. 03 Franziska Brantner GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 Vedran Horvat MEP NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012 Heinrich Böll Stiftung, EU Zagreb Office HR Regional Energy Strategy

n October 18th, the Strategy will shape the energy worried that the strategy fails Ecological transformation Energy Community landscape of South-East for address corruption and public adopted its Regional years to come and will have a procurement issues and does not in the Western Balkans Energy Strategy for the direct impact on people's lives and put sufficient emphasis on low- WOestern Balkans region at a the environment. carbon technologies and energy cological transformation available investment strategies in sustainable negative carbon Ministerial Council meeting in efficiency. in the Western Balkans is the region. There is a need to emissions for the economy in 2050. Franziska Brantner and three other Budva, Montenegro, despite public both necessity and change governance patterns but Environmental impact of the MEPs – Jelko Kacin, Eduard Kukan As a consequence of the failure by criticism. Franziska Brantner, MEP opportunity for the region that change has been achieved energy industry could turn into and Maria Eleni Koppa – urged the the European Commission and the and foreign-policy spokesperson of tEo reach the point of elsewhere and remains within positive: energy industry emerges responsible EU commissioner for Energy Community to adequately /EFA group in the in resource governance and capability of local communities in as a component of sustainable energy policy, Günther Oettinger, respond to these concerns, , had sovereignty in the terms of energy the region. There is a feasible development. It is to be embedded in a letter to postpone the Franziska Brantner proposes to criticised the draft strategy and supply. Therefore it is one of the sequence of policies and events into human development process adoption of the strategy. The hold a public hearing at the called for postponing the decision. core dimensions of the change of that could result in a change of and the human community in a MEPs' main concern was that the European Parliament to discuss the patterns that are currently governance patterns and the very traditional way achieved The Energy Community brings strategy had been drawn up in an the Regional Energy Strategy and dominating in the economy. design of property rights required within sustainable communities together the European Union and opaque and non-inclusive manner. the Energy Community's Through number of measures to facilitate investments and from the history of Balkans. the countries of the Western The Energy Community's procedures for public consultation. carbon free Western Balkans with economic development. Nothing Balkans, Moldova and Ukraine. It secretariat had, in particular, For more information see: higher social standards and green prevents international donors to re- This paper is not critique of existing aims at extending the EU internal failed to properly consult and www.euractiv.com/regional- economy is possible in the near design their assistance programs to policies. It stands as an alternative energy market to South East involve civil society organisations policy/meps-questions-commissions- future. facilitate change described hereby. and provides a policy choice. Being Europe and is chiefly funded by and parliaments in the preparatory pract-news-515437 and Economic development could be provided with feasible options, the EU. The Regional Energy process. Moreover, the MEPs are www.franziska-brantner.eu. These are the preliminary findings based on productivity of renewable policymakers and communities of the study which will be published resources and not on natural obtain the responsibility to choose. soon by Heinrich Böll Stiftung. resource rents. Therefore, Choice is going to be a deliberate Coordinated by the Heinrich Böll economic development could be decision and not a consequence of Kostas Loukeris Stiftung Zagreb office and sustainable in terms of longevity perceived necessity. conducted in Bosnia & and human development impact. Chair, Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia and This economic development is This scenario comprises a mix of GR Green Institute, Greece Montenegro, work on this study has likely to require less, not more policies, institutions and tangible brought together approximately 20 energy. Only at its maximum investments that are mutually experts and involvement of around extent, in case full employment is reinforced and sequenced to build The Green Institute Greece 150 local stakeholders in the last achieved, energy demand a durable strategy for change. It two years involved in the different approaches the annual volume of returns sovereignty to people in the and the Balkan Green Newsletter phases of research. The study energy consumed during the last region and their communities and presents scenarios that years. Therefore, available energy reminds that international aid is infrastructure is used in a far more intended for people in need to t was with great pleasure same way that we Greens believe We Balkans need to talk more to demonstrate capacity of the effective way. The region has a facilitate, educate, promote and when Olga and Ahmed that the air, the water, the birds each other! We need to express domestic energy and agriculture potential to provide considerable assist their human development. It suggested that the Green and the sea cannot “belong” to a our fears and not let them grow sectors in four countries to couple enabling contribution to the is based on available means, Institute, Greece supports state they cannot be privatized behind closed doors! We need to ecological modernisation measures European energy security and known institutions and policies, theI Green Balkan Newsletter. and thus fall victim to the discuss and compare the common with increase of well being and renewable energy development available technologies, proven Needless to say, that the neoliberal quest for profit. strategies that all those who put prosperity. At the Green Balkan elsewhere in Europe. It does not policy advice, renewable resources Executive Board of the Green profit before human lives have put Network meeting there will be require more international financial Institute voted unanimously in Economic bottlenecks lead to in action. We need to identify what presented paper that relates to that could be developed or assistance. However, that is to be favor of that suggestion. I am skepticism, more populism and has gone wrong and ultimately set energy sector in four countries, harvested in place where available smart, focused, targeted and more than happy that the tireless give rise to nationalism. We, in the our own targets! authored by core expert with direct access to economic use. coordinated assistance. Primary efforts of Ahmed and Olga have Balkans, have paid a great share Aleksandar Kovacevic. goal of the international assistance As European Union rules and taken (electronic) shape! to the Moloch of nationalism. Many We live in a part of the world rich of us are historically linked to in culture, natural beauty, This paper argues that prosperity is to stimulate valuable regulation result from centuries of I am one of those who think it is places in another Balkan state, diversity and dynamism! We could be achieved by other means. contribution of the region to the development experience, high time we Balkans reconsider other than our own. Many of us should bear in mind that we share The region is endowed by Europe energy markets, its security application, not derogation of these our political views and prioritize speak or have a distant memory of common traditions and invaluable renewable energy potential far of supply and full de-carbonization rules, is in the best interest of both our Green orientation. The a second language spoken in the common intangible heritage. It is beyond the European average. or sustainable economic the region, its people and Europe. austerity measures we are Balkans. Our mustachioed and in our hands to transform all these Renewable energy is available, development. In this respect, EU The scenario presented hereby, experiencing almost all over our bearded war heroes cannot hide into a strategy for the Green suitable and accessible with accession obligations are critical demonstrates that application of peninsula are paving the way for the sorrows inflicted upon Balkans! Let this Balkan Green available technologies today at policy and assistance tools: the these rules (envisaged by the more vicious attacks on common generation after generation in Newsletter be a short ‘electronic investment cost that is more region is able to achieve Energy Community Treaty and goods, natural resources, the many instances blinded by our step’ toward that direction! efficient than conventional obligations envisaged in this other compacts) is technically 04 environment by and large. In the nationalist desire for domination. investment mix envisaged by moment and lead the way toward feasible. It could be done. 05 Franziska Brantner GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 Vedran Horvat MEP NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012 Heinrich Böll Stiftung, EU Zagreb Office HR Regional Energy Strategy n October 18th, the Strategy will shape the energy worried that the strategy fails Ecological transformation Energy Community landscape of South-East Europe for address corruption and public adopted its Regional years to come and will have a procurement issues and does not in the Western Balkans Energy Strategy for the direct impact on people's lives and put sufficient emphasis on low- WOestern Balkans region at a the environment. carbon technologies and energy cological transformation available investment strategies in sustainable negative carbon Ministerial Council meeting in efficiency. in the Western Balkans is the region. There is a need to emissions for the economy in 2050. Franziska Brantner and three other Budva, Montenegro, despite public both necessity and change governance patterns but Environmental impact of the MEPs – Jelko Kacin, Eduard Kukan As a consequence of the failure by criticism. Franziska Brantner, MEP opportunity for the region that change has been achieved energy industry could turn into and Maria Eleni Koppa – urged the the European Commission and the and foreign-policy spokesperson of tEo reach the point of sustainability elsewhere and remains within positive: energy industry emerges responsible EU commissioner for Energy Community to adequately the Greens/EFA group in the in resource governance and capability of local communities in as a component of sustainable energy policy, Günther Oettinger, respond to these concerns, European Parliament, had sovereignty in the terms of energy the region. There is a feasible development. It is to be embedded in a letter to postpone the Franziska Brantner proposes to criticised the draft strategy and supply. Therefore it is one of the sequence of policies and events into human development process adoption of the strategy. The hold a public hearing at the called for postponing the decision. core dimensions of the change of that could result in a change of and the human community in a MEPs' main concern was that the European Parliament to discuss the patterns that are currently governance patterns and the very traditional way achieved The Energy Community brings strategy had been drawn up in an the Regional Energy Strategy and dominating in the economy. design of property rights required within sustainable communities together the European Union and opaque and non-inclusive manner. the Energy Community's Through number of measures to facilitate investments and from the history of Balkans. the countries of the Western The Energy Community's procedures for public consultation. carbon free Western Balkans with economic development. Nothing Balkans, Moldova and Ukraine. It secretariat had, in particular, For more information see: higher social standards and green prevents international donors to re- This paper is not critique of existing aims at extending the EU internal failed to properly consult and www.euractiv.com/regional- economy is possible in the near design their assistance programs to policies. It stands as an alternative energy market to South East involve civil society organisations policy/meps-questions-commissions- future. facilitate change described hereby. and provides a policy choice. Being Europe and is chiefly funded by and parliaments in the preparatory pract-news-515437 and Economic development could be provided with feasible options, the EU. The Regional Energy process. Moreover, the MEPs are www.franziska-brantner.eu. These are the preliminary findings based on productivity of renewable policymakers and communities of the study which will be published resources and not on natural obtain the responsibility to choose. soon by Heinrich Böll Stiftung. resource rents. Therefore, Choice is going to be a deliberate Coordinated by the Heinrich Böll economic development could be decision and not a consequence of Kostas Loukeris Stiftung Zagreb office and sustainable in terms of longevity perceived necessity. conducted in Bosnia & and human development impact. Chair, Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia and This economic development is This scenario comprises a mix of GR Green Institute, Greece Montenegro, work on this study has likely to require less, not more policies, institutions and tangible brought together approximately 20 energy. Only at its maximum investments that are mutually experts and involvement of around extent, in case full employment is reinforced and sequenced to build The Green Institute Greece 150 local stakeholders in the last achieved, energy demand a durable strategy for change. It two years involved in the different approaches the annual volume of returns sovereignty to people in the and the Balkan Green Newsletter phases of research. The study energy consumed during the last region and their communities and presents scenarios that years. Therefore, available energy reminds that international aid is infrastructure is used in a far more intended for people in need to t was with great pleasure same way that we Greens believe We Balkans need to talk more to demonstrate capacity of the effective way. The region has a facilitate, educate, promote and when Olga and Ahmed that the air, the water, the birds each other! We need to express domestic energy and agriculture potential to provide considerable assist their human development. It suggested that the Green and the sea cannot “belong” to a our fears and not let them grow sectors in four countries to couple enabling contribution to the is based on available means, Institute, Greece supports state they cannot be privatized behind closed doors! We need to ecological modernisation measures European energy security and known institutions and policies, theI Green Balkan Newsletter. and thus fall victim to the discuss and compare the common with increase of well being and renewable energy development available technologies, proven Needless to say, that the neoliberal quest for profit. strategies that all those who put prosperity. At the Green Balkan elsewhere in Europe. It does not policy advice, renewable resources Executive Board of the Green profit before human lives have put Network meeting there will be require more international financial Institute voted unanimously in Economic bottlenecks lead to in action. We need to identify what presented paper that relates to that could be developed or assistance. However, that is to be favor of that suggestion. I am skepticism, more populism and has gone wrong and ultimately set energy sector in four countries, harvested in place where available smart, focused, targeted and more than happy that the tireless give rise to nationalism. We, in the our own targets! authored by core expert with direct access to economic use. coordinated assistance. Primary efforts of Ahmed and Olga have Balkans, have paid a great share Aleksandar Kovacevic. goal of the international assistance As European Union rules and taken (electronic) shape! to the Moloch of nationalism. Many We live in a part of the world rich of us are historically linked to in culture, natural beauty, This paper argues that prosperity is to stimulate valuable regulation result from centuries of I am one of those who think it is places in another Balkan state, diversity and dynamism! We could be achieved by other means. contribution of the region to the development experience, high time we Balkans reconsider other than our own. Many of us should bear in mind that we share The region is endowed by Europe energy markets, its security application, not derogation of these our political views and prioritize speak or have a distant memory of common traditions and invaluable renewable energy potential far of supply and full de-carbonization rules, is in the best interest of both our Green orientation. The a second language spoken in the common intangible heritage. It is beyond the European average. or sustainable economic the region, its people and Europe. austerity measures we are Balkans. Our mustachioed and in our hands to transform all these Renewable energy is available, development. In this respect, EU The scenario presented hereby, experiencing almost all over our bearded war heroes cannot hide into a strategy for the Green suitable and accessible with accession obligations are critical demonstrates that application of peninsula are paving the way for the sorrows inflicted upon Balkans! Let this Balkan Green available technologies today at policy and assistance tools: the these rules (envisaged by the more vicious attacks on common generation after generation in Newsletter be a short ‘electronic investment cost that is more region is able to achieve Energy Community Treaty and goods, natural resources, the many instances blinded by our step’ toward that direction! efficient than conventional obligations envisaged in this other compacts) is technically 04 environment by and large. In the nationalist desire for domination. investment mix envisaged by moment and lead the way toward feasible. It could be done. 05 Ulrike Lunacek GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 Yannis Paraskevopoulos EU MEP* NOVEMBER 2012 Oikologoi Prasinoi* GR ‘BALKANIZATION’, Western Balkans and EU enlargement: STEREOTYPES AND OVERCOMING NATIONALISMS: A green Roadmap for EU enlargement the state of play and the Greens role in the Western Balkans

Western Balkan country who are Kosovo President Atifete Jahjaga I the EU in these enlargement to accept the opening of 2-3 (out of frustrated and even annoyed by had the pleasure of addressing processes, is to actually play a the total of 35) chapters of the the old power structures. This new more than 200 women from many constructive role and avoid the accession talks, as a symbolic left-, which has Balkan states and the US, making temptation to discriminate between gesture of goodwill. actively shown interest in joining clear that without women politics 'good' and 'bad' nationalisms. • Opening of the remaining chapters the European Greens and will be at will neither be just nor sustainable The current dispute about the name would follow as soon a preliminary anywhere in the world. our upcoming Council meeting in of the Former Yugoslav Republic of agreement is reached on the Athens, has gained 7 seats in the Macedonia and its EU accession framework and scope of the parliament – only half a year after In the case of Macedonia, anger is directed against Greece over the project, clearly exemplifies this compromise name now under being established! challenge to overcome nationalisms. negotiation. naming issue. For the fourth year Congratulations! Since 2008, the common position of in a row the Commission has the Balkan Greens, is resolving the • Greece would also identify, right recommended opening accession As for Serbia, which was given alkanization», as a term for name dispute "with respect and from the start, which accession talks negotiations with Macedonia. The chapters it considers as closely he award of the Nobel candidate status last spring, the irrational fragmentation tolerance to the feelings of both Council must now step up the associated with regional good Peace Prize to the Commission has not and destructive sides". A compromise name pressure on Greece to remove its neighborhood issues. As far as these European Union is a recommended a date for the start nationalism, reflects not implying there “might” also be a veto. Such disputes should be Greek and a Bulgarian Macedonia chapters are concerned, Greece will timely reminder of the of accession negotiations at this Bjust stereotypes of Western and stage. I welcome this decision as dealt with via an EU arbitrage Central European societies about us besides the ex-Yugoslav one, would reserve the option to make their Tprinciple of ‘cooperation instead of mechanism. The European closing conditional on a final Balkan peoples, but also real be an important step to build mutual confrontation‘ that has ended a Belgrade has not yet sufficiently Parliament already has called for weaknesses we need to jointly trust and promote cooperation. solution to the name issue, either history of bloodshed. And it is also improved its relations with Kosovo. The Serbian government's such a mechanism. My Green address and overcome. through the current UN talks or a reminder that the European In recent years, this name issue has through the arbitration mechanism decision to ban the Pride parade in colleagues and I in the parliament peace project will not be complete also believe that a solution to the While traditionally each country's also been associated with the EU proposed by the EP about until South Eastern Europe is part Belgrade some weeks ago is also immediate neighbors were regarded enlargement prospects in the differences between member states deeply regrettable. The name issue is close as soon as of the EU. So where do we stand in both sides show more flexibility potential enemies and our Western Balkans; the Former and / or candidate countries. Commission must keep up the the enlargement process in the and stop entrenching themselves neighbors’ neighbors potential allies, Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia has close monitoring of the protection Such a Roadmap could also reflect Western Balkans after EU- in increasingly nationalistic we now live in an era of ecological already an EU candidate country of minority rights in Serbia and all status, but the opening of accession the precedent of Croatia, whose Commission published the recent disputes. crisis where the environment knows progress reports? the other countries of the region. no borders and immediate neighbors talks is constantly postponed as successful completion of their accession talks had been made At the recent ‘Wiener Ball‘ The European Parliament will now are indispensable partners. In this Greece is warning it would oppose conditional on having their border Croatia, the next country to join by (traditional Viennese dancing adopt its own accession reports context, every nationalism is such a step in the European Council. mid-2013 must not slow down its event based on Viennese Waltzes) damaging its own country first. dispute with Slovenia resolved; the over the next few months, and at MEPs of Oikologoi Prasinoi, the reform process with EU accession in Belgrade not only Ivan Karic, talks about both issues proceeded the EGP Council in Athens Cross-border cooperation in jointly Greek Greens, have repeatedly then in parallel (and were both in sight. On the contrary, for Green MP, joined me but also two European Greens will strategize on protecting environmental assets and stressed that our country should concluded successfully). Greece Croatia's government this final other activists and we strategized how to strengthen Green parties in promoting a green transformation of balance legitimate concerns about itself has adopted a similar strategy against the new government‘s step to EU membership should be the region to make our struggle for our economies, should be a first the name issue with the standard on Turkey's EU candidacy. used as catalyst for speedily idea of deleting the ban on nuclear , environmental priority for all our Green parties. interest of every European country tackling outstanding reforms, in power plants and to reduce sustainability, equal rights and Nevertheless every cross-border to pursue and prioritize the EU This way, the opening of the particular in the fields of justice feeding tariffs for renewables. against corruption more visible effort, such as fighting destructive accession of its immediate accession talks could rather and anti-corruption, the protection and successful! goldmining or supporting, upgrading neighbors. This is at least what facilitate resolving a decades old of ethnic and sexual minorities, The Commission is also right to and reestablishing decent train links, France has done with Spain and dispute that has poisoned the and the domestic prosecution of give Kosovo a real and palpable would be highly vulnerable as long Portugal in the early 80s, Germany mutual trust and relations between war crimes. accession perspective with the as nationalisms are rampant and with in the 90s, Sweden and the two neighboring societies. In any feasibility study for a Stabilisation unsustainable interests are able to Finland with the Baltic countries in case, it's vital to keep in mind that In the overall picture Montenegro, and Association Agreement. label cross-border grassroots the early 2000s. green thinking and citizens the next country at the negotiation Kosovo, nevertheless, needs to contacts as “talking with the 'diplomacy' have both much to offer. table, has already achieved much. improve the functioning of its state enemy”. Publishing some personal thoughts Maybe it's time we Balkan people But there are still some areas of institutions and start delivering in this context as "food for thought" overcome nationalisms on our own It is important then that we Balkan for the green movement, I would concern: Corruption is widespread, tangible results in the fight against Ulrike Lunacek, MEP, is foreign affairs initiative and show the rest of spokeswoman for the Greens/ Greens work together to jointly then like to outline a possible with the political elite and foreign corruption and organised crime, as Europe that old stereotypes no European Free Alliance political group overcome all nationalisms in our initiative leading to a Roadmap for longer reflect the new realities. investors deeply involved. But the well as in establishing rule of law in the European Parliament, the region. In this context, accession EU accession talks with the Former election success for „Pozitivna for all its citizens. At a recent high parliament‘s rapporteur for Kosovo prospects for those countries not yet Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia: * co-head of Oikologoi Prasinoi Montenegro“ on Oct. 14th provides level Conference on Women's and co-president of the Intergroup on EU member states, can be a highly in last May’s and June’s national 06 new hope for all those in the small Empowerment on invitation by LGBT rights important tool. A key challenge for • As a first step, Greece would offer 07 Ulrike Lunacek GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 Yannis Paraskevopoulos EU MEP* NOVEMBER 2012 Oikologoi Prasinoi* GR ‘BALKANIZATION’, Western Balkans and EU enlargement: STEREOTYPES AND OVERCOMING NATIONALISMS: A green Roadmap for EU enlargement the state of play and the Greens role in the Western Balkans

Western Balkan country who are Kosovo President Atifete Jahjaga I the EU in these enlargement to accept the opening of 2-3 (out of frustrated and even annoyed by had the pleasure of addressing processes, is to actually play a the total of 35) chapters of the the old power structures. This new more than 200 women from many constructive role and avoid the accession talks, as a symbolic left-liberal party, which has Balkan states and the US, making temptation to discriminate between gesture of goodwill. actively shown interest in joining clear that without women politics 'good' and 'bad' nationalisms. • Opening of the remaining chapters the European Greens and will be at will neither be just nor sustainable The current dispute about the name would follow as soon a preliminary anywhere in the world. our upcoming Council meeting in of the Former Yugoslav Republic of agreement is reached on the Athens, has gained 7 seats in the Macedonia and its EU accession framework and scope of the parliament – only half a year after In the case of Macedonia, anger is directed against Greece over the project, clearly exemplifies this compromise name now under being established! challenge to overcome nationalisms. negotiation. naming issue. For the fourth year Congratulations! Since 2008, the common position of in a row the Commission has the Balkan Greens, is resolving the • Greece would also identify, right recommended opening accession As for Serbia, which was given alkanization», as a term for name dispute "with respect and from the start, which accession talks negotiations with Macedonia. The chapters it considers as closely he award of the Nobel candidate status last spring, the irrational fragmentation tolerance to the feelings of both Council must now step up the associated with regional good Peace Prize to the Commission has not and destructive sides". A compromise name pressure on Greece to remove its neighborhood issues. As far as these European Union is a recommended a date for the start nationalism, reflects not implying there “might” also be a veto. Such disputes should be Greek and a Bulgarian Macedonia chapters are concerned, Greece will timely reminder of the of accession negotiations at this justB stereotypes of Western and stage. I welcome this decision as dealt with via an EU arbitrage Central European societies about us besides the ex-Yugoslav one, would reserve the option to make their principleT of ‘cooperation instead of mechanism. The European closing conditional on a final Balkan peoples, but also real be an important step to build mutual confrontation‘ that has ended a Belgrade has not yet sufficiently Parliament already has called for weaknesses we need to jointly trust and promote cooperation. solution to the name issue, either history of bloodshed. And it is also improved its relations with Kosovo. The Serbian government's such a mechanism. My Green address and overcome. through the current UN talks or a reminder that the European In recent years, this name issue has through the arbitration mechanism decision to ban the Pride parade in colleagues and I in the parliament peace project will not be complete also believe that a solution to the While traditionally each country's also been associated with the EU proposed by the EP about until South Eastern Europe is part Belgrade some weeks ago is also immediate neighbors were regarded enlargement prospects in the differences between member states deeply regrettable. The name issue is close as soon as of the EU. So where do we stand in both sides show more flexibility potential enemies and our Western Balkans; the Former and / or candidate countries. Commission must keep up the the enlargement process in the and stop entrenching themselves neighbors’ neighbors potential allies, Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia has close monitoring of the protection Such a Roadmap could also reflect Western Balkans after EU- in increasingly nationalistic we now live in an era of ecological already an EU candidate country of minority rights in Serbia and all status, but the opening of accession the precedent of Croatia, whose Commission published the recent disputes. crisis where the environment knows progress reports? the other countries of the region. no borders and immediate neighbors talks is constantly postponed as successful completion of their accession talks had been made At the recent ‘Wiener Ball‘ The European Parliament will now are indispensable partners. In this Greece is warning it would oppose conditional on having their border Croatia, the next country to join by (traditional Viennese dancing adopt its own accession reports context, every nationalism is such a step in the European Council. mid-2013 must not slow down its event based on Viennese Waltzes) damaging its own country first. dispute with Slovenia resolved; the over the next few months, and at MEPs of Oikologoi Prasinoi, the reform process with EU accession in Belgrade not only Ivan Karic, talks about both issues proceeded the EGP Council in Athens Cross-border cooperation in jointly Greek Greens, have repeatedly then in parallel (and were both in sight. On the contrary, for Green MP, joined me but also two European Greens will strategize on protecting environmental assets and stressed that our country should concluded successfully). Greece Croatia's government this final other activists and we strategized how to strengthen Green parties in promoting a green transformation of balance legitimate concerns about itself has adopted a similar strategy against the new government‘s step to EU membership should be the region to make our struggle for our economies, should be a first the name issue with the standard on Turkey's EU candidacy. used as catalyst for speedily idea of deleting the ban on nuclear social justice, environmental priority for all our Green parties. interest of every European country tackling outstanding reforms, in power plants and to reduce sustainability, equal rights and Nevertheless every cross-border to pursue and prioritize the EU This way, the opening of the particular in the fields of justice feeding tariffs for renewables. against corruption more visible effort, such as fighting destructive accession of its immediate accession talks could rather and anti-corruption, the protection and successful! goldmining or supporting, upgrading neighbors. This is at least what facilitate resolving a decades old of ethnic and sexual minorities, The Commission is also right to and reestablishing decent train links, France has done with Spain and dispute that has poisoned the and the domestic prosecution of give Kosovo a real and palpable would be highly vulnerable as long Portugal in the early 80s, Germany mutual trust and relations between war crimes. accession perspective with the as nationalisms are rampant and with Austria in the 90s, Sweden and the two neighboring societies. In any feasibility study for a Stabilisation unsustainable interests are able to Finland with the Baltic countries in case, it's vital to keep in mind that In the overall picture Montenegro, and Association Agreement. label cross-border grassroots the early 2000s. green thinking and citizens the next country at the negotiation Kosovo, nevertheless, needs to contacts as “talking with the 'diplomacy' have both much to offer. table, has already achieved much. improve the functioning of its state enemy”. Publishing some personal thoughts Maybe it's time we Balkan people But there are still some areas of institutions and start delivering in this context as "food for thought" overcome nationalisms on our own It is important then that we Balkan for the green movement, I would concern: Corruption is widespread, tangible results in the fight against Ulrike Lunacek, MEP, is foreign affairs initiative and show the rest of spokeswoman for the Greens/ Greens work together to jointly then like to outline a possible with the political elite and foreign corruption and organised crime, as Europe that old stereotypes no European Free Alliance political group overcome all nationalisms in our initiative leading to a Roadmap for longer reflect the new realities. investors deeply involved. But the well as in establishing rule of law in the European Parliament, the region. In this context, accession EU accession talks with the Former election success for „Pozitivna for all its citizens. At a recent high parliament‘s rapporteur for Kosovo prospects for those countries not yet Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia: * co-head of Oikologoi Prasinoi Montenegro“ on Oct. 14th provides level Conference on Women's and co-president of the Intergroup on EU member states, can be a highly in last May’s and June’s national 06 new hope for all those in the small Empowerment on invitation by LGBT rights important tool. A key challenge for • As a first step, Greece would offer elections in Greece 07 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 BA NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012

Nasa stranka reclaims its position in the 2012 Nasa stranka promotes a green approach local elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina in its campaign

asa stranka meticulously prepared the local election campaign in 2012. In Naddition to selecting high quality designers, photographers, stylists and printing companies, it decided to show citizens that it keeps its green policies at a high priority. In place of making posters that will be stuck all over town, often torn down in the middle of the campaign and left as trash on streets and in parks, Nasa stranka chose to skip the posters all together and opt for a few clean billboards and invest into sustainable bags. Nasa stranka asa stranka entered votes or 9.9%. Nasa stranka was citizens and partner to has been loud in requesting a ban Bosnia’s politics in 2008 also recommended by NGO entrepreneurs, revive tourism, on bags since 2009, both at after existing for less monitoring the election campaign provide equal opportunities to ALL municipal and at regional level than half year and went for its substance: it had the most citizens… was not a copy of the and the campaign was a good Non to achieve major results: 22 elaborate local policies dealing Obama Yes, We Can, but rather a opportunity to put our money municipal councillors, 3 deputy directly with issues pertaining to response to the all-too-familiar where our mouth is. A significant council chairs, 1 mayor and 1 local problems: security in the municipal official’s response to all portion of the campaign was deputy mayor. The 2010 elections streets and in schools, youth requests by citizens and invested into printing shopping were a hard fall and a blow to marginalisation, green councillors to make changes: No, bags that were then distributed to Nasa stranka. However, it peaked municipalities, opening municipal we can’t! Therefore, Nasa stranka citizens in markets and on streets. back in the 2012 elections, doors to SMEs, developing tourism answers by saying, ok, but we The citizens were very impressed retaining its 4th position in potential, equal opportunities for can! Mi možemo! with the move and were more than Nasa stranka Sarajevo with 14 councillors, persons with disabilities. The willing to take the shopping bags winning councillors in two new campaign slogan We can…offer and replace the plastic with them. promotes municipalities and retaining new solutions, green our another three councillors from municipalities, be a service to a clean and 2008. The votes are still being counted for the municipal healthy councillors and agreements on council chairs and deputies are to be brokered, but success is environment evident already. The campaign took place in 19 municipalities Nasa stranka Novo Sarajevo with over 300 candidate decided it is high time to come out councillors and 5 mayoral in the spring of 2012 and be an councillors. Nasa stranka was the example of citizen action in first in the history of Sarajevo City creating a healthy, clean and to offer 4 women mayor green environment. The members candidates for its 4 municipalities of the board came out one and put gender equality in weekend with their families and practice and not only lip service. friends and spent the day cleaning The 4 women mayor candidates the parks and streets of their won an average of 4th position in neighbourhood. The action was these municipalities competing mentioned in local media and with 10 other candidates in each some neighbours chipped in to 08 location, gaining a total of 10,055 help. 09 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 BA NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012

Nasa stranka reclaims its position in the 2012 Nasa stranka promotes a green approach local elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina in its campaign

asa stranka meticulously prepared the local election campaign in 2012. In Naddition to selecting high quality designers, photographers, stylists and printing companies, it decided to show citizens that it keeps its green policies at a high priority. In place of making posters that will be stuck all over town, often torn down in the middle of the campaign and left as trash on streets and in parks, Nasa stranka chose to skip the posters all together and opt for a few clean billboards and invest into sustainable bags. Nasa stranka asa stranka entered votes or 9.9%. Nasa stranka was citizens and partner to has been loud in requesting a ban Bosnia’s politics in 2008 also recommended by NGO entrepreneurs, revive tourism, on plastic bags since 2009, both at after existing for less monitoring the election campaign provide equal opportunities to ALL municipal and at regional level than half year and went for its substance: it had the most citizens… was not a copy of the and the campaign was a good onN to achieve major results: 22 elaborate local policies dealing Obama Yes, We Can, but rather a opportunity to put our money municipal councillors, 3 deputy directly with issues pertaining to response to the all-too-familiar where our mouth is. A significant council chairs, 1 mayor and 1 local problems: security in the municipal official’s response to all portion of the campaign was deputy mayor. The 2010 elections streets and in schools, youth requests by citizens and invested into printing shopping were a hard fall and a blow to marginalisation, green councillors to make changes: No, bags that were then distributed to Nasa stranka. However, it peaked municipalities, opening municipal we can’t! Therefore, Nasa stranka citizens in markets and on streets. back in the 2012 elections, doors to SMEs, developing tourism answers by saying, ok, but we The citizens were very impressed retaining its 4th position in potential, equal opportunities for can! Mi možemo! with the move and were more than Nasa stranka Sarajevo with 14 councillors, persons with disabilities. The willing to take the shopping bags winning councillors in two new campaign slogan We can…offer and replace the plastic with them. promotes municipalities and retaining new solutions, green our another three councillors from municipalities, be a service to a clean and 2008. The votes are still being counted for the municipal healthy councillors and agreements on council chairs and deputies are to be brokered, but success is environment evident already. The campaign took place in 19 municipalities Nasa stranka Novo Sarajevo with over 300 candidate decided it is high time to come out councillors and 5 mayoral in the spring of 2012 and be an councillors. Nasa stranka was the example of citizen action in first in the history of Sarajevo City creating a healthy, clean and to offer 4 women mayor green environment. The members candidates for its 4 municipalities of the board came out one and put gender equality in weekend with their families and practice and not only lip service. friends and spent the day cleaning The 4 women mayor candidates the parks and streets of their won an average of 4th position in neighbourhood. The action was these municipalities competing mentioned in local media and with 10 other candidates in each some neighbours chipped in to 08 location, gaining a total of 10,055 help. 09 Ahmet Atil Aşici GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 George Blionis International Relations Secretary, NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012 Biologist/Ecologist PhD, TR Co-coordinator of Green Balkan Network, member of GR Yeşiller Partisi / Turkey

Gold Mining at Kazdağlari The new Gold Rush in Greece

azdaglari (Mount Ida) is everal gold mining resources sustaining the one of the important projects have recently surrounding area. An experimental mountain chains situated been given permission in method for extracting gold (flash on the provincial borders Greece and are ready to smelting) is feared that will end up Kof Çanakkale and Balikesir, on the startS digging! “Small” firms which in unrestricted use of cyanide. A Biga peninsula which is situated at acquired initially the mining rights metallurgical industrial installation the north of Aegean Sea. Part of through various (often ambivalent will produce large quantities of the region, which possesses rich or controversial) ways, have been sulphur dioxide emissions, while resources in terms of natural and recently bought by multinational two tailing ponds with toxic wastes cultural aspects, within the “investment” corporations: will be constructed at nearby borders of Edremit District of Eldorado Gold Corporation (based valleys. But most significantly, Balikesir Province has been in Canada) has acquired Skouries every other possibility for their MEPs in the European announced as a “National Park”. and Olympias at Halkidiki, as well economic activity will be Parliament [6] and their active The National Park and its as Perama Hill at Evros [1], Glory cancelled. Tourism, bee-keeping, support to the struggles and immediate surroundings Resources (based in Australia) has animal farming, irrigation protests of local citizens groups. demonstrate quite rapid acquired Sapes at Rodopi [2], agriculture, sustainable tree- developments for tourism while another deposit in Kilkis is logging will be almost impossible [1] www.eldoradogold.com perspectives because of diversity up for lease [3]. All these deposits to conduct at the nearby area. [2] www.gloryresources.com.au, Sapes gold project. and visual value of natural and present low concentrations in gold Greek legislation did not impose – lower than 1gr per ton of any royalties for these mining [3] http://ekathimerini.com, Lease process cultural resources owned. starts for Kilkis gold mine. Map showing the gold mining sides around Kazdağlari excavation materials – and are activities. In Halikidiki, this was Yet, the whole region is under a scandalously supported with the [4] www.euromaxresources.com, Map with typical of all the new projects in mining projects in Balcan. major threat from gold mining been estimated that a total of 2,5 water resources. The region is the Balkans [4]. argument that the mining [5] www.independent.co.uk, Greece companies whose investments billion tons of rock have to be populated by 1,5 million people corporations should mitigate welcomes gold miners. Gold mining is gathering previous environmental damages surged after the adoption of the transferred. In other words, 125 whose subsistence is based on [6] www.europarl.europa.eu, Written new Mining Law. As of August million trucks with 20 tons eco-tourism, olive and animal momentum after Greece began by investing in remediation of Questions by Michail Tremopoulos 2011, a total of 285 mining fields capacity. Moreover, considering farming. what it called a "fast-track" previous toxic waste accumulation (Verts/ALE) to the Commission: Sale of has been opened which cover the need to use 3 tons of water in approvals program, downgrading which included cyanide, arsenic Cassandra Mines, 9 April 2010. The Aarhus order to get 2-3 grams of gold per In 2008, the municipalities around environmental restrictions. "We and other heavy metals! Convention and auditing on the Hellenic almost 6000 square kilometers. Gold company's EIA, tons of rocks, it is not difficult to the region were united against noticed an enormous change in www.europarl.europa.eu, 17 January 2011. The gold potential of the region is estimate the negative gold mining Greece in the time we were there Ecologist Greens have expressed Co financing of the Petrenia dam in the estimated to be 338 tons. In order consequences of gold mining over (http://www.kazmad.gov.tr/index.p driven by the financial crisis," said their opposition to these projects Gomati region in Halkidiki, to unearth that much gold, it has the natural environment as well as hp), and have been engaged in officials from gold mining through mainly the questions of www.europarl.europa.eu, 31 October 2011. raising awareness by organizing corporations to the Independent conferences as well as other newspaper recently [5]. "With activities. Between 12 and 14 tourism falling and with the crisis October 2012, a workshop has they were collapsing into with the been organized, with the presence they really had no choice." of many activists from Turkey and This is a blunt confirmation of an other countries. over-exploitative colonialist attitude which is usually found in Third World countries with no environmental regulations or human rights guarantees.

The environmental as well as social and economic impacts are huge. At Skouries, a whole mountaintop will be removed to create an open-pit mine, almost 400 hectares of old growth forest will be clear cut, with an 10 accompanying loss of water 11 Ahmet Atil Aşici GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 George Blionis International Relations Secretary, NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012 Biologist/Ecologist PhD, TR Co-coordinator of Green Balkan Network, member of Ecologist Greens GR Yeşiller Partisi / Turkey

Gold Mining at Kazdağlari The new Gold Rush in Greece azdaglari (Mount Ida) is everal gold mining resources sustaining the one of the important projects have recently surrounding area. An experimental mountain chains situated been given permission in method for extracting gold (flash on the provincial borders Greece and are ready to smelting) is feared that will end up ofK Çanakkale and Balikesir, on the startS digging! “Small” firms which in unrestricted use of cyanide. A Biga peninsula which is situated at acquired initially the mining rights metallurgical industrial installation the north of Aegean Sea. Part of through various (often ambivalent will produce large quantities of the region, which possesses rich or controversial) ways, have been sulphur dioxide emissions, while resources in terms of natural and recently bought by multinational two tailing ponds with toxic wastes cultural aspects, within the “investment” corporations: will be constructed at nearby borders of Edremit District of Eldorado Gold Corporation (based valleys. But most significantly, Balikesir Province has been in Canada) has acquired Skouries every other possibility for their MEPs in the European announced as a “National Park”. and Olympias at Halkidiki, as well economic activity will be Parliament [6] and their active The National Park and its as Perama Hill at Evros [1], Glory cancelled. Tourism, bee-keeping, support to the struggles and immediate surroundings Resources (based in Australia) has animal farming, irrigation protests of local citizens groups. demonstrate quite rapid acquired Sapes at Rodopi [2], agriculture, sustainable tree- developments for tourism while another deposit in Kilkis is logging will be almost impossible [1] www.eldoradogold.com perspectives because of diversity up for lease [3]. All these deposits to conduct at the nearby area. [2] www.gloryresources.com.au, Sapes gold project. and visual value of natural and present low concentrations in gold Greek legislation did not impose – lower than 1gr per ton of any royalties for these mining [3] http://ekathimerini.com, Lease process cultural resources owned. starts for Kilkis gold mine. Map showing the gold mining sides around Kazdağlari excavation materials – and are activities. In Halikidiki, this was Yet, the whole region is under a scandalously supported with the [4] www.euromaxresources.com, Map with typical of all the new projects in mining projects in Balcan. major threat from gold mining been estimated that a total of 2,5 water resources. The region is the Balkans [4]. argument that the mining [5] www.independent.co.uk, Greece companies whose investments billion tons of rock have to be populated by 1,5 million people corporations should mitigate welcomes gold miners. Gold mining is gathering previous environmental damages surged after the adoption of the transferred. In other words, 125 whose subsistence is based on [6] www.europarl.europa.eu, Written new Mining Law. As of August million trucks with 20 tons eco-tourism, olive and animal momentum after Greece began by investing in remediation of Questions by Michail Tremopoulos 2011, a total of 285 mining fields capacity. Moreover, considering farming. what it called a "fast-track" previous toxic waste accumulation (Verts/ALE) to the Commission: Sale of has been opened which cover the need to use 3 tons of water in approvals program, downgrading which included cyanide, arsenic Cassandra Mines, 9 April 2010. The Aarhus order to get 2-3 grams of gold per In 2008, the municipalities around environmental restrictions. "We and other heavy metals! Convention and auditing on the Hellenic almost 6000 square kilometers. Gold company's EIA, tons of rocks, it is not difficult to the region were united against noticed an enormous change in www.europarl.europa.eu, 17 January 2011. The gold potential of the region is estimate the negative gold mining Greece in the time we were there Ecologist Greens have expressed Co financing of the Petrenia dam in the estimated to be 338 tons. In order consequences of gold mining over (http://www.kazmad.gov.tr/index.p driven by the financial crisis," said their opposition to these projects Gomati region in Halkidiki, to unearth that much gold, it has the natural environment as well as hp), and have been engaged in officials from gold mining through mainly the questions of www.europarl.europa.eu, 31 October 2011. raising awareness by organizing corporations to the Independent conferences as well as other newspaper recently [5]. "With activities. Between 12 and 14 tourism falling and with the crisis October 2012, a workshop has they were collapsing into with the been organized, with the presence Euro they really had no choice." of many activists from Turkey and This is a blunt confirmation of an other countries. over-exploitative colonialist attitude which is usually found in Third World countries with no environmental regulations or human rights guarantees.

The environmental as well as social and economic impacts are huge. At Skouries, a whole mountaintop will be removed to create an open-pit mine, almost 400 hectares of old growth forest will be clear cut, with an 10 accompanying loss of water 11 Silviu Dimitriu GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 Vera Koronaki Secretary General NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012 member of Greens RO Partidul Verde, Romania Oikologoi Prasinoi GR

Protests against shale gas exploitation in Romania Erimitis is not for sale

ver 50 people protested he of Erimitis in Bucharest on 22nd of is situated on the north- September outside the east coast of the island of Ministry of Environment Corfu. It covers an area of andO Forests against shale gas Tapproximately 500.000 sq.m of exploitation by hydraulic woodland with rich fauna and fracturing. The action was flora, includes 3 lakes and 7 organized by the 'Green Institute' beaches and is the habitat of lutra- (Romanian Green Party’s think lutra (otter) as well as a stopover tank), supported by members of site of rare migratory birds. the party, environmental activists and protesters from the University The local government of the Ionian Square. Islands as well as the town council unanimously passed a resolution, The action lasted for two hours stating that Erimitis, an ecosystem and more than 50 protesters from identified as Protected Natural all over the country gathered in Formation (art.5 of law 3937/2011 front of the Ministry. The conveyed par. 5, b) can only be transformed messages were: «Get the frack into an eco park and sustain its out!», «They get money, we get natural beauty and . cancer» or «No fracking way». The Nevertheless, the Greek selected for strategic reasons, For more information on Erimitis: event was associated with the government, ignoring the above therefore it must not be removed. http://ecocorfu.gr/download/OIKOSYST international context of 'Anti- resolutions decided to grant a 99 HMA_ERHMHTH_DHMOS_KASSOPAION. Fracking Day' (Global Frackdown). year lease of the place to foreign Erimitis is an attraction for tourists pdf Even if the attendance was not as investors. The plan is to “develop” who love nature and is offered for At high as expected the protest was the area by exploiting hiking, horse riding, swimming and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJR well covered in national media approximately 180.000 sq.m of its sailing. The visitors of Erimitis stay ROK-TrJw (newspapers, news websites, TV surface in order to construct in local hotels, dine in local you can watch a video of the and radio). vacation villas and hotel leisure restaurants and go shopping in ecosystem of Erimitis made by a local facilities, which will change the small local shops. If it is turned lady who has an active role in the «We protest against the use of microclimate and will affect the into a large tourist complex, local movement against the sale of Erimitis. hydraulic fracturing in Romania fauna and flora of the ecosystem. economy will wither since The writing expressing the feelings of and to show solidarity with similar Ownership of Erimitis has been everything will be offered on the the local people is in Greek but you can enjoy the pictures all the same. movements from all around the transferred from the Hellenic premises. Therefore, claims that world. We don’t want Republic to the recently the development of Erimitis will contaminated water, compromised established Hellenic Republic bring gains to local economy are soils or unhealthy air. It is proved Asset Development Fund (HARDF), disputable. that this kind of exploitation which has been assigned to carry endangers human health, the out transactions with the We, the people of the island of environment, threatens prospective investors. Local Corfu, want this place of biodiversity and significantly entities have made an appeal to outstanding natural beauty to be contributes to . the court of justice for the heritage of the next generations Examples of other European annulment of the above decision, as it has been heritage to us from countries such as France - which claiming that the establishment of our forefathers. banned hydraulic fracturing, or HARDF is illegal as it is contrary to Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and the constitution. The case is to be the Netherlands - where a heard on the 27th of November moratorium already passed the 2012. Parliament in order to suspend all activities, makes us believe that Furthermore, the region is very Romania will abandon the close to the Greek Albanian border intention to exploit shale gas» and there is an outpost within the said Ciprian Ciocan – area to be granted. The site of the 12 PR Green Institute. outpost was very carefully 13 Silviu Dimitriu GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 Vera Koronaki Secretary General NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012 member of Corfu Greens RO Partidul Verde, Romania Oikologoi Prasinoi GR

Protests against shale gas exploitation in Romania Erimitis is not for sale ver 50 people protested he ecosystem of Erimitis in Bucharest on 22nd of is situated on the north- September outside the east coast of the island of Ministry of Environment Corfu. It covers an area of andO Forests against shale gas apprToximately 500.000 sq.m of exploitation by hydraulic woodland with rich fauna and fracturing. The action was flora, includes 3 lakes and 7 organized by the 'Green Institute' beaches and is the habitat of lutra- (Romanian Green Party’s think lutra (otter) as well as a stopover tank), supported by members of site of rare migratory birds. the party, environmental activists and protesters from the University The local government of the Ionian Square. Islands as well as the town council unanimously passed a resolution, The action lasted for two hours stating that Erimitis, an ecosystem and more than 50 protesters from identified as Protected Natural all over the country gathered in Formation (art.5 of law 3937/2011 front of the Ministry. The conveyed par. 5, b) can only be transformed messages were: «Get the frack into an eco park and sustain its out!», «They get money, we get natural beauty and biodiversity. cancer» or «No fracking way». The Nevertheless, the Greek selected for strategic reasons, For more information on Erimitis: event was associated with the government, ignoring the above therefore it must not be removed. http://ecocorfu.gr/download/OIKOSYST international context of 'Anti- resolutions decided to grant a 99 HMA_ERHMHTH_DHMOS_KASSOPAION. Fracking Day' (Global Frackdown). year lease of the place to foreign Erimitis is an attraction for tourists pdf Even if the attendance was not as investors. The plan is to “develop” who love nature and is offered for At high as expected the protest was the area by exploiting hiking, horse riding, swimming and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJR well covered in national media approximately 180.000 sq.m of its sailing. The visitors of Erimitis stay ROK-TrJw (newspapers, news websites, TV surface in order to construct in local hotels, dine in local you can watch a video of the and radio). vacation villas and hotel leisure restaurants and go shopping in ecosystem of Erimitis made by a local facilities, which will change the small local shops. If it is turned lady who has an active role in the «We protest against the use of microclimate and will affect the into a large tourist complex, local movement against the sale of Erimitis. hydraulic fracturing in Romania fauna and flora of the ecosystem. economy will wither since The writing expressing the feelings of and to show solidarity with similar Ownership of Erimitis has been everything will be offered on the the local people is in Greek but you can enjoy the pictures all the same. movements from all around the transferred from the Hellenic premises. Therefore, claims that world. We don’t want Republic to the recently the development of Erimitis will contaminated water, compromised established Hellenic Republic bring gains to local economy are soils or unhealthy air. It is proved Asset Development Fund (HARDF), disputable. that this kind of exploitation which has been assigned to carry endangers human health, the out transactions with the We, the people of the island of environment, threatens prospective investors. Local Corfu, want this place of biodiversity and significantly entities have made an appeal to outstanding natural beauty to be contributes to climate change. the court of justice for the heritage of the next generations Examples of other European annulment of the above decision, as it has been heritage to us from countries such as France - which claiming that the establishment of our forefathers. banned hydraulic fracturing, or HARDF is illegal as it is contrary to Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and the constitution. The case is to be the Netherlands - where a heard on the 27th of November moratorium already passed the 2012. Parliament in order to suspend all activities, makes us believe that Furthermore, the region is very Romania will abandon the close to the Greek Albanian border intention to exploit shale gas» and there is an outpost within the said Ciprian Ciocan – area to be granted. The site of the 12 PR Green Institute. outpost was very carefully 13 Andrew Murphy GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 Daniela Bozhinova Green European Foundation NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012 Deputy, EU Democracy International BG

The Green European Journal If democracy is a good thing, he Green European Journal I. MAJOR: was launched last year, BEYOND GROWTH / DEGROWTH let’s have more of it and is an online platform • Beyond growth/degrowth, for outstanding articles of questions for the Greens in or a number of years now addressing the area of democracy. and operating. A dozen of ECIs Tinterest to the Green movement transition, Benoit Lechat, Editor- we have been wrestling Political elections are just a have already been registered and across Europe. The journal is in-Chief with a crisis which began democratic minimum which our are kick-starting petition published on a quarterly basis, but • Beyond old cleavages, new green as a debt one, deepened citizenry have long ago outgrown. circulation. Of course, the ECI its ‘In the debate’ section is debates, Paul-Marie Boulanger Fto become an economic crisis and alone cannot bridge the gap of updated on a more regular basis, is turning more and more into a If democracy is a value we all democratic deficit in the EU. with articles on a wider range of • How fast should the wheel turn? share, let’s have more of it. Let the Ralf Fücks – Reinhard Loske crisis of democracy and legitimacy Enhancing the role of the issues. of representative government - national states, and again Parliament, reforming the • Transitioning to a especially in this part of Europe, The purpose of the GEJ is to provide • Greens vs transition towns: same nationally and Europe-wide. European elections shall also be Postconsumerist Future, Maurie install voter-friendly rules and a space at European level for aims, different means, Alexis Democratic commitments are considered as ways of J. Cohen practices providing for meaningful discussion and debate around key Rowell & Sarah Nicholl being replaced by the financial improvement in a serious and • Getting markets to work for citizens participation, public issues facing the EU and the II. MINOR: dictates of the executive branch. urgent fashion. But may be , Heikki Sairanen Austerity mandates are being reasoning and direct decision- improvement will not do, may be Greens. Not only as a forum for new and Jaakko Stenhäll THE FUTURE OF EUROPE ideas, but also to critique and imposed without public consent. making. The mechanisms of direct it’s time for a wider reform and • Four steps to a growth-free, • Only deeper European Democratic freedoms and a democracy (referendum, initiative deliberation on the future of review what the European Green unification can save the prosperous Finland, Timo plenitude of social rights are under and recall), can also serve as Europe, time to go back to the movement stands for and how it eurozone, Peter Bofinger, Jürgen Järvensivu citizens’ checks and balances on could progress. Habermas & Julian Nida-Ruemelin attack everywhere, but especially drawing board, time to call a new • An Austrian debate: Green New in Central and South-East Europe, representative government and democratic European Convention. If you are interested in writing an Deal and the post-growth • What democratic Europe? where top-down political improve accountability and article for the GEJ, or in having an economy, Benoit Lechat Response to Jürgen Habermas, communication has been the trait legitimacy of public institutions. Coming back to Greece as the article reprinted in the GEJ, then Etienne Balibar • No growth? In search of another of political life as an aftermath of birthplace of democracy might be please let us know at [email protected] path for Europe, Aurélie Maréchal • The crisis, ferment of European socialist command systems or Let us use the European Citizens just about the right thing to do at Federalism, Pierre Defraigne. Initiative (ECI) to address cross- this moment. It’s like coming back You can see below the articles of authoritarian regimes. • De-growth: Can Croatia afford boundary issues of importance. to the crime-scene for more clues. the 3rd edition of the Journal less work and less consumption? Read these interesting articles in: Europe and the Member States are The ECI - the first ever It’s coming back to the agora as ‘Beyond growth/degrowth’. Igor Matutinovic www.greeneuropeanjournal.eu bound together. Neither of them transnational instrument of public the oldest democracy prototype can revive itself without participation, is already in place which definitely had been direct.

Joline Suijkerbuijk Individual Supporters’ EU Network (ISN) Olsi Bakalli Chair, Albanian Young Greens AL The Athens Express

he European Green Party them. Prague will be our first stop referendum concerning a nuclear Albanian young greens plant new trees organizes a council every on the way, where the Greens are power plant, and a demonstration six months. This is the time engaged in an election campaign, by Anonymous. When we leave irana - Albanian young reduction of the natural resources where all the Green parties which focuses on energy issues and Sofia we will experience first hand greens in collaboration damages the economy of the frTom all over Europe come together anti-fracking. Our second stop will what budget cuts to public with an organization country. Citizens today absorb to discuss, share, and vote. The be Zagreb, where we organize a transport do: there is no train called “Balkans lets get more carbon dioxide than oxygen. Individual Supporters’ Network press conference which focuses on between the Bulgarian and Greek up”,T undertook a start off planting the poor situation of the railways The society and the government (ISN) – the network which connects border. These are the only some trees in Fushe-Kruja individual Greens to the European and public transport. The third city kilometers of the trip we have to do sometimes are not aware or willing is Budapest, where we will give a municipality. Our action was to take measures, to prevent Green Party – always sends a few by car, because Greece decided to supported even by young people team members to a council, to workshop on transport in quit the railway connection further damages. Planting many of high schools. engage with these Greens. coordination with Lehet Más a between Sofia and Athens. trees in the cities will add green Politika. The next stop will be in In Albania the phenomenon of surfaces and will improve in a This time the ISN is going to Athens Bucharest, where we will focus on The ISN co-organizes this trip and is visible way the quality of the air, massive wood cutting and the lack encourage volunteerism, by train. We want to show that it is democracy issues, with a public supported by the European Green and will improve the quality of the of replanting is very spread, especially among young citizens, possible to travel from one end of movie show in the Contemporary Party, Michael Cramer, MEP, the life of citizens. Europe to the other by train. on our Art Museum. The fifth and final stop Federation of Young European causing air , and and to bring a different spirit of way, we will visit Greens and their will be in Sofia, where we will Greens and the European Network destroying the ecosystem of many Therefore, we undertook this awareness in the community of 14 parties, and try to connect with engage in a campaign on a of Green Seniors. species. Furthermore, the initiative with a desire to that polluted area. 15 Andrew Murphy GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 GREEN BALKAN NEWSLETTER #2 Daniela Bozhinova Green European Foundation NOVEMBER 2012 NOVEMBER 2012 Deputy, EU Democracy International BG

The Green European Journal If democracy is a good thing, he Green European Journal I. MAJOR: was launched last year, BEYOND GROWTH / DEGROWTH let’s have more of it and is an online platform • Beyond growth/degrowth, for outstanding articles of questions for the Greens in or a number of years now addressing the area of democracy. and operating. A dozen of ECIs interTest to the Green movement transition, Benoit Lechat, Editor- we have been wrestling Political elections are just a have already been registered and across Europe. The journal is in-Chief with a crisis which began democratic minimum which our are kick-starting petition published on a quarterly basis, but • Beyond old cleavages, new green as a debt one, deepened citizenry have long ago outgrown. circulation. Of course, the ECI its ‘In the debate’ section is debates, Paul-Marie Boulanger Fto become an economic crisis and alone cannot bridge the gap of updated on a more regular basis, is turning more and more into a If democracy is a value we all democratic deficit in the EU. with articles on a wider range of • How fast should the wheel turn? share, let’s have more of it. Let the Ralf Fücks – Reinhard Loske crisis of democracy and legitimacy Enhancing the role of the issues. of representative government - national states, and again Parliament, reforming the • Transitioning to a especially in this part of Europe, The purpose of the GEJ is to provide • Greens vs transition towns: same nationally and Europe-wide. European elections shall also be Postconsumerist Future, Maurie install voter-friendly rules and a space at European level for aims, different means, Alexis Democratic commitments are considered as ways of J. Cohen practices providing for meaningful discussion and debate around key Rowell & Sarah Nicholl being replaced by the financial improvement in a serious and • Getting markets to work for citizens participation, public issues facing the EU and the II. MINOR: dictates of the executive branch. urgent fashion. But may be green politics, Heikki Sairanen Austerity mandates are being reasoning and direct decision- improvement will not do, may be Greens. Not only as a forum for new and Jaakko Stenhäll THE FUTURE OF EUROPE ideas, but also to critique and imposed without public consent. making. The mechanisms of direct it’s time for a wider reform and • Four steps to a growth-free, • Only deeper European Democratic freedoms and a democracy (referendum, initiative deliberation on the future of review what the European Green unification can save the prosperous Finland, Timo plenitude of social rights are under and recall), can also serve as Europe, time to go back to the movement stands for and how it eurozone, Peter Bofinger, Jürgen Järvensivu citizens’ checks and balances on could progress. Habermas & Julian Nida-Ruemelin attack everywhere, but especially drawing board, time to call a new • An Austrian debate: Green New in Central and South-East Europe, representative government and democratic European Convention. If you are interested in writing an Deal and the post-growth • What democratic Europe? where top-down political improve accountability and article for the GEJ, or in having an economy, Benoit Lechat Response to Jürgen Habermas, communication has been the trait legitimacy of public institutions. Coming back to Greece as the article reprinted in the GEJ, then Etienne Balibar • No growth? In search of another of political life as an aftermath of birthplace of democracy might be please let us know at [email protected] path for Europe, Aurélie Maréchal • The crisis, ferment of European socialist command systems or Let us use the European Citizens just about the right thing to do at Federalism, Pierre Defraigne. Initiative (ECI) to address cross- this moment. It’s like coming back You can see below the articles of authoritarian regimes. • De-growth: Can Croatia afford boundary issues of importance. to the crime-scene for more clues. the 3rd edition of the Journal less work and less consumption? Read these interesting articles in: Europe and the Member States are The ECI - the first ever It’s coming back to the agora as ‘Beyond growth/degrowth’. Igor Matutinovic www.greeneuropeanjournal.eu bound together. Neither of them transnational instrument of public the oldest democracy prototype can revive itself without participation, is already in place which definitely had been direct.

Joline Suijkerbuijk Individual Supporters’ EU Network (ISN) Olsi Bakalli Chair, Albanian Young Greens AL The Athens Express he European Green Party them. Prague will be our first stop referendum concerning a nuclear Albanian young greens plant new trees organizes a council every on the way, where the Greens are power plant, and a demonstration six months. This is the time engaged in an election campaign, by Anonymous. When we leave irana - Albanian young reduction of the natural resources where all the Green parties which focuses on energy issues and Sofia we will experience first hand greens in collaboration damages the economy of the frTom all over Europe come together anti-fracking. Our second stop will what budget cuts to public with an organization country. Citizens today absorb to discuss, share, and vote. The be Zagreb, where we organize a transport do: there is no train called “Balkans lets get more carbon dioxide than oxygen. Individual Supporters’ Network press conference which focuses on between the Bulgarian and Greek up”,T undertook a start off planting the poor situation of the railways The society and the government (ISN) – the network which connects border. These are the only some trees in Fushe-Kruja individual Greens to the European and public transport. The third city kilometers of the trip we have to do sometimes are not aware or willing is Budapest, where we will give a municipality. Our action was to take measures, to prevent Green Party – always sends a few by car, because Greece decided to supported even by young people team members to a council, to workshop on transport in quit the railway connection further damages. Planting many of high schools. engage with these Greens. coordination with Lehet Más a between Sofia and Athens. trees in the cities will add green Politika. The next stop will be in In Albania the phenomenon of surfaces and will improve in a This time the ISN is going to Athens Bucharest, where we will focus on The ISN co-organizes this trip and is visible way the quality of the air, massive wood cutting and the lack encourage volunteerism, by train. We want to show that it is democracy issues, with a public supported by the European Green and will improve the quality of the of replanting is very spread, especially among young citizens, possible to travel from one end of movie show in the Contemporary Party, Michael Cramer, MEP, the life of citizens. Europe to the other by train. on our Art Museum. The fifth and final stop Federation of Young European causing air pollution, erosion and and to bring a different spirit of way, we will visit Greens and their will be in Sofia, where we will Greens and the European Network destroying the ecosystem of many Therefore, we undertook this awareness in the community of 14 parties, and try to connect with engage in a campaign on a of Green Seniors. species. Furthermore, the initiative with a desire to that polluted area. 15 ographics.gr metr

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