The EGP is saddened to hear of the death of Ukrainian environmental activist Vladimir Goncharenko last weekend. Mr. Goncharenko was attacked and severely beaten on August 1 and passed away due to his injuries on Saturday morning. He was 57. As leader of the "For the Rights of Citizens to Environmental Safety" movement, Mr Goncharenko had recently exposed the illegal dumping of dangerous industrial waste in and around the city of Krivoy Rog. The European Green Party is glad to hear that the Ukrainian police have opened an investigation into the case and hopes that the inquiry will lead to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.

On Sunday about 200 people showed their respect to Vladimir at the offices of the Citizens for Environmental Safety, with many praising his bravery and conviction. Our thoughts are with Vladimir's family, friends and fellow activists at this difficult time and the European Green Party offers its sincere condolences towards the family of Vladimir Goncharenko.

Ukrainian Green Party page about Mr. Goncharenko's death