September 30, 1998

Honorable members of European Parliament,

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,

On the occasion of Mr. Ukshin Hoti's nomination for the Sakharov Prize, I feel free in addressing you with my support for his nomination. I am convinced not only that the prize is going in the right hands, but also that with giving the Sakharov Prize to a political prisoner still serving his sentence You will enhance the meaning of the prize itself from the position of mere acknowledgement into political engagement.

This engagement is today so much needed in creation of the whole picture about Europe, in stressing the big contrasts that exist, in explaining them and in giving a clear vision about what Europe should be like.

On the other hand, Mr. Hoti is a devoted advocate of democracy, human rights and peace. He used his brilliant mind and knowledge to explain what peace means and found its roots in justice. He spent his lifetime fighting for the just peace that Kosova now needs more than ever. Sakharov Prize is deserved by Mr. Hoti and deserves him.

With my deepest regards,

Adem DEMACI, Sakharov Prize Winner 1991