United Macedonia Diaspora

[Buktop]

Originally Posted by Risto the Great

I agree with you 100% Buktop. How do you genuinely feel the UMD is performing in relation to this matter?

Of course UMD could always perform better, but to tell you the truth, I think they are doing alright. I would like to see some more initiatives concerning the actions of the citizens in the diaspora, but this is a touchy subject as 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations are subject to restrictions concerning elections and lobbying.

Originally Posted by Soldier of Macedon

Buktop's explanation of UMD's role is correct. Unfortunately, this is not what UMD were/are doing with their support of 'democratic' prefixes. I am sure he can see this. And as I have said many a time, circumstances that affect the MK Government do not affect the UMD, they let down the Macedonian Diaspora by supporting such a notion, at a time when they should have been adamantly opposed to it, as per the sentiments and wishes of the Macedonian Diaspora.

We have discussed said position to exhaustion, and not that I disagree with you, but I would like to hear what Meto has to say about it. I would prefer this discussion come up in his visit to Australia or in a personal correspondence via e-mail rather than on the forum. (that is my preference, it does not necessarily mean that you have to agree)

[Buktop]

Originally Posted by Pelister

UMD do not care about the Macedonian diaspora.

UMD are supporting these Western structures which have backed fully the terms put to us by Greece - UMD have suggested various modified name changes, because Meto and Mitreski at UMD are careerists and opportunists.

As long as there is a dispute, and as long as the Macedonian government thinks its o.k to be negotiating our historical identity - you can be UMD will continue to stand for the same.

When Meto Koloski said "Macedonia has to modify its name" he had one thing in mind - E.U membership.

These pea-brains have sold us out, and will continue to so. The New "catchword" of UMD is "Integration". They want Macedonia "integrated" into the West. If that organization is not a tool for Western foriegn policy for Macedonia - I don't know what is.

[osiris]

but to tell you the truth, I think they are doing alright.

buktop what is it they have done.

[Soldier of Macedon]

Meto has already given his 'response' to this on the forum, this happened on one of the earlier threads where I brought up the ZMR interview. Use the search function at the top of your screen, you shouldn't have too much trouble locating his response.

If I recall correctly, he basically gave the poor excuse that because the MK Government were apparently preparing to accept a compromise, he just jumped along for the ride. I pointed out to him that the UMD was supposed to be there to represent us, and not 'act' as a puppy for the MK Government. I can't remember if he even responded to that, I will look it up tonight. That said, I found his response weak, and this is over a forum, in person Meto would have been torn to shreds, is that what he is anticipating when he comes to Australia? Does he think he has an edge by responding in person? Meto's trip here won't be the success he thinks, and given his reluctance to address matters here, the intensity in public and in person will be higher.

Whoever he has as his advisors, he should replace them immediately, but then again, he probably doesn't for his own reasons.

[Buktop]

Originally Posted by Soldier of Macedon

Meto has already given his 'response' to this on the forum, this happened on one of the earlier threads where I brought up the ZMR interview. Use the search function at the top of your screen, you shouldn't have too much trouble locating his response.

If I recall correctly, he basically gave the poor excuse that because the MK Government were apparently preparing to accept a compromise, he just jumped along for the ride. I pointed out to him that the UMD was supposed to be there to represent us, and not 'act' as a puppy for the MK Government. I can't remember if he even responded to that, I will look it up tonight. That said, I found his response weak, and this is over a forum, in person Meto would have been torn to shreds, is that what he is anticipating when he comes to Australia? Does he think he has an edge by responding in person? Meto's trip here won't be the success he thinks, and given his reluctance to address matters here, the intensity in public and in person will be higher.

Whoever he has as his advisors, he should replace them immediately, but then again, he probably doesn't for his own reasons.

Do you remember the name of the thread?

[Buktop]

Originally Posted by osiris

buktop what is it they have done.

Feel free to check their website, I am not their spokesman.

[Phoenix]

Originally Posted by Buktop

Of course UMD could always perform better, but to tell you the truth, I think they are doing alright. I would like to see some more initiatives concerning the actions of the citizens in the diaspora, but this is a touchy subject as 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations are subject to restrictions concerning elections and lobbying.

Buktop, isn't UMD involved in lobbying already...doesn't Meto travel the globe 'talking' to policy makers and individuals on behalf of Macedonians in general and the Macedonian Government specifically...?

[Rogi]

I think the difference is that you can't make financial contributions to any politicians, candidates or parties, but speaking to them about issues is okay.

Without making any financial contributions, it's hardly lobbying. I mean, you have to rely on good will and honesty from policy makers (oxymoron?).

[Buktop]

Originally Posted by Phoenix

Buktop, isn't UMD involved in lobbying already...doesn't Meto travel the globe 'talking' to policy makers and individuals on behalf of Macedonians in general and the Macedonian Government specifically...?

Lobbying in the sense of cash or cash equivalents.

public charities (but not private foundations) are permitted to conduct a limited amount of lobbying to influence legislation. Although the law states that "no substantial part" of a public charity's activities may be devoted to lobbying, charities with very large budgets may lawfully expend a million dollars (under the "expenditure" test) or more (under the "substantial part" test) per year on lobbying

[Phoenix]

Originally Posted by Rogi

I think the difference is that you can't make financial contributions to any politicians, candidates or parties, but speaking to them about issues is okay.

Without making any financial contributions, it's hardly lobbying. I mean, you have to rely on good will and honesty from policy makers (oxymoron?).

Call it what you will but UMD hide behind a name that falsely portrays a massive membership of concerned Macedonians, that in itself is a powerful tool, I'm sure the 'issue' of money can be easily 'hidden' for tax purposes and the renumeration of 'favours'...