19 June 2009

A Pre-Election Conference entitled “Meet Your Candidate: The European Parliament and Armenians in the Next Legislature of the European Parliament” was held by AGBU London on the 29th of May 2009 at the Churchill Hotel – Hyatt Regency, London.

The main goal of the conference was to discuss EU policy of interest to Armenians and prospects for the next legislature. The conference themes included highlights on the policies that are related to the Armenian Diaspora, culture and education. Issues related to Armenia, such as the prevention of resumption of war in Nagorno-Karabagh, the threat to the Armenian cultural and architectural heritage outside Armenia, and many other concerns were discussed.

The conference hosted representatives of major UK parties and other honorary guests. The panel comprised candidates for the Member of European Parliament (MEP): Ms Ute Miche, the Green Party, and Mr Jonathan Fryer, the Liberal Democrats. Apologies were received from representatives of Labour, UK Independent and Conservative parties.

The honorary guest Baroness Cox, from the British House of Lord, made the opening speech. Lady Cox briefed about issues current to Armenia and Nagorno-Karabagh. She talked about the progress made and the challenges still ahead for Armenia and Armenians. Baroness Cox talked about her experience when visiting the region and the works published afterwards.

The panel sessions and discussions were moderated by Nicolas Tavitian – AGBU Europe board member. Mr. Tavitian posed a set of questions that were addressed by the panellists. Additionally, Ms Miche and Mr Fryer positioned their statement on the policies on humanitarian aid in the Caucasus and the acknowledgement of the Armenian genocide. The MEP candidates also covered topics directly related to the Armenian Diaspora such as education, multilingualism and intercultural dialogue within the European Union.

Somewhat 110 participants attended the conference of which many represented Armenian organizations operating in the UK. The Q&A session allowed the attendees to take an active participatory role by raising questions and engaging in discussion with the panellists. The refreshments served shortly after the closing remarks gave the participants a chance to mingle and speak to the panellists in a less formal environment.

This conference was the second initiative of its kind, organized by AGBU to strengthen the link between the Armenian Diaspora in the UK and the political leaders in Europe. This event, we believe, raised awareness of the issues that are of great concern for the Armenian Diaspora and encouraged mutual understanding.

For more information on AGBU London activities and events click here.