U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said ordinary citizens of Eastern Partnership member states are playing a critical role in moving their societies towards international norms.

“Every day in the six countries of the Eastern Partnership - Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine - ordinary citizens are playing a critical role in moving their societies towards international norms, enshrined in UN and OSCE commitments, for human rights and democratic values,” reads the message addressed to the participants of Eastern Partnership civil society conference.

John Kerry noted that although there has been progress on the path of democratic reform in most of your countries, serious challenges remain with regard to freedom of speech and the media, rule of law, and accountability. 

“Yet civil society groups fight on with deep commitment and often self-sacrifice, holding their governments accountable, shining a light on murky areas of corruption and ensuring respect for the rights of every citizen, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. 

The United States celebrates the critical work being done by civil society to promote the core values of democracy, rule of law, and respect for human rights.  You have my best wishes and full support for your endeavors,” the message reads.