OTTAWA, ON (November 10, 2022): In recognition for his extraordinary service in raising Estonia’s profile internationally, MLI Senior Fellow Marcus Kolga will be awarded the Cross of Merit, Second Class, by Estonian Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu.
The Cross of Merit is often awarded to diplomats and partners from Estonia and beyond on November 15th, a date marking the anniversary of the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Kolga’s efforts toward persuading Western audiences on the importance of defending the foundations of European security are cited as the reason for receiving this honour.
In his work for the Institute, Kolga has frequently commented on Eastern and Central European issues, with a focus on disinformation and authoritarianism in the region. He has been at the forefront in speaking out against, and bringing attention to, the Putin regime’s tyranny and the threats Moscow poses to the region. Most recently he has:
- Supported efforts to counter Russian propaganda and disinformation;
- Appeared before government committees arguing for the development of gas delivery infrastructure to counter Russia’s energy coercion;
- Spoken out against sanction waivers that greatly benefit the Putin regime to the detriment of Ukraine; and
- Spoken in favour of greater bilateral ties with Baltic states.
MLI has been at the forefront in supporting democracy in Eastern Europe and condemning the excesses of the Putin regime. The award is an affirmation not only of the importance and effectiveness of the work of Marcus Kolga, but also of MLI’s role as an advocate for Canada’s interests and security. The Institute does this work despite attempts by the Kremlin to pressure MLI into silence.
For more information, media are invited to contact:
Skander Belouizdad
Communications Officer
613-482-8327 ext. 111
skander.belouizdad@macdonaldlaurier.ca
