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The EU Parliament has created a dedicated website, https://ukraine.europarl.europa.eu/en/home, where visitors can discover how the EU has supported Ukraine, including its current struggle against Russia. The 26 February 2024 Newsletter has described the EU funding programmes supporting Ukraine.

This article describes another instrument developed by the EU Parliament as a soft tool in parliamentary mediation and dialogue: The Jean Monnet Dialogue for Peace and Democracy. The Jean Monnet Dialogue enhances political leaders’ capacity to foster genuine inter-party communication and establish the consensus vital for cultivating a democratic parliamentary environment and trust.

This initiative supplements conventional capacity-building programs and contributes to institutional reform efforts. It serves as a platform for political group leaders to seek consensus on key national policies. Launched in October 2016 at Monnet’s residence in Bazoches-sur-Guyonne, the Jean Monnet Dialogue is not confined solely to this symbolic location but extends to various venues.

It draws inspiration from Jean Monnet’s pragmatic approach, aiming for tangible and agreed-upon outcomes. Contrary to single-issue conferences, the Dialogue follows a structured process involving preparatory consultations, confidential meetings, and subsequent follow-ups on commitments.

Initially employed in the European Parliament’s collaboration with the Ukrainian Parliament in 2016, the Jean Monnet Dialogue methodology has since supported the Parliament of North Macedonia and other priority countries in the EU Neighbourhood, extending beyond the tumultuous backdrop of conflict and instability.

Since its inception, numerous dialogues have been convened in diverse locations, addressing various issues from opposition representation to institutional reforms, resulting in consensus agreements and tangible outcomes implemented within the respective parliaments.

The eighth and ninth Dialogues with the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine took place respectively in April and November 2023.

In the conclusions of the last dialogue, they emphasized unity despite political differences in advancing reform processes. Participants recognized Ukraine’s efforts towards EU membership but acknowledged that more work is needed, requiring cooperation among all government branches. Transparency and accountability in democratic institutions are deemed vital for EU and NATO accession, with reforms planned to meet standards. Parliamentary diplomacy is crucial for Ukraine’s aspirations, focusing on inclusive approaches. Stability during military conflict is prioritized, with commitments to uphold democratic processes until elections post-war. Reforms within the Verkhovna Rada include adopting a parliamentary service law and enhancing minority representation. Long-term plans involve balancing majority and minority interaction within parliamentary bodies for effective governance.

For further information, you can visit the Jean Monnet Dialogue for Peace and Democracy website: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/globaldemocracysupport/en/mediation-and-dialogue/jean-monnet-dialogues

Written by: Cristina Ceccarelli