In Sofia, a two-day International conference entitled “Dealing with the Past, Looking to the Future" / 11 and Nov. 12 / has ended. The forum was part of the “25 Years Free Bulgaria” citizens' initiative, organized under the auspices of Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev. Among the speakers at the forum were prominent politicians, journalists, political scientists and sociologists from the country and abroad. They discussed the changes that took place in Central and Eastern Europe after November 1989 and whether the Berlin Wall collapsed completely in the Balkans or Balkan societies are still in transition to democracy? Prof. Dr. Veton Latifi, professor of political science and international relations at the South East European University (SEEU) in Tetovo, Macedonia told us more.

What is the situation on the Balkans 25 years after the fall of communism? 
 
"Today, the Balkans look differently. Perhaps the situation is not so clear when it comes to democracy. Because 25 years ago, people falsely thought after the fall of communism, democracy will simply happen. Some Balkan countries continue to experience a deficit of democracy and have a problem with getting it to function. But nevertheless, throughout the Balkans there is a dose of optimism and a common path to Euro-Atlantic integration. Some countries are ahead, others are lagging behind. It is important to understand that the issue of our communist past should not be used for sparking new disputes, but as a proof that today the Balkans need to clarify the issue of freedom, democracy and shared future. Today we need to focus on common projects and not allow history to affect our economic, political and intellectual life. We seem to forget that the purpose of the creation of the EU is to achieve peace and prosperity. Let's not look at EU integration as a requirement that must be met for Brussels to see. We must build the path of cooperation, understanding and seek compromises. If just one of the Balkan countries failed to introduce full democracy we could not speak about integration of the region.”

 
"The fall of the Berlin Wall symbolizes the fall of communism in Eastern Europe and is a symbol of freedom. During these 25 years many countries of the former communist bloc managed to bring down the walls of prejudice, stereotypes, destructive discourses, and historical preconceptions. However, in the Balkans, there exists a partial democratic approach when it comes to decision making. The stereotypes of political elites who dream of dictatorial methods in politics continue to thrive. Today we see a society that is seemingly open but there are these micro walls inherited from the communist regime, which viewed in perspective, create a system of walls. We must find the right formula for their removal, but without resorting to violence."

English: Alexander Markov