Statement delivered
by Tamara Bulygina, Ecoline, European ECO-Forum
Kiev “Environment for Europe” Conference
Session on Water Initiative, 22 May 2003
Dear Chairman, dear colleagues,
On behalf of European ECO-Forum I thank you for the
opportunity to present the opinion of NGOs concerning the EU Water Initiative-EECCA
component.
Environmental NGOs from EECCA countries welcome the
adoption of Water Initiative. It is important that this process is open for participation
of all stakeholders. It declares partnership of all sectors of civil society in addressing
water problems.
We welcome the openness of negotiations that started at
the preparatory stage in relation to the Water Initiative for EECCA countries in the
framework of European Partnership on Water.
We believe that the development of Water Initiative should
continue as clear, transparent and accessible process for the public at all stages.
It is very important to organize public monitoring of
implementation of the Water Initiative. NGOs suggest developing and introducing a
mechanism of meaningful public participation in the implementation of Water Initiative
that is in full conformity to the principles of Aarhus Convention.
We would like to stress the importance of NGO
participation in WI building blocks. This is crucial both for development and
implementation of NGO projects and for participation in projects of state authorities.
What do NGOs suggest for implementation of water
partnership?
We propose to create and support regional and basin NGO
networks to facilitate the implementation of Water Initiative
We are prepared to initiate parliamentary and public
hearings on water issues and public access to drinking water to facilitate the dialogue
among all sectors of civil society
NGOs can contribute to raising public awareness on water
issues and the need for reforms in water sector. We ask the ministers of our countries to
support the idea of Public Water Centers with the functions in information, consultation
and education areas.
NGOs are prepared to participate in expert assessments,
analytical studies, and public opinion polls on water issues
ECO-Forum is prepared to cooperate and participate in
the activities of a Coordination Body for Water Initiative.
We believe that wide involvement of civil society in the
implementation of Water Initiative and partnership of governmental and non-governmental
sectors would contribute to effective achievement of the goals of Water Initiative. Thank
you for attention.
|
