Congress of the Võru People

1st Congress (22 March 2023, Võru)

1st Congress of the Võro People was held on 22 March 2023 in Võru, Estonia.

It was attended by 139 delegates, each of whom was authorized by at least five people of Võro origin.

Three decisions were adopted:

On self-determination as indigenous people – 122 votes for, 1 vote against, 3 delegates abstained
On rights of the Võro language and its use in the public sphere, education, culture and media – 117 votes for, 0 votes against, 2 delegates abstained
On protection of the environment – 117 votes for, 0 votes against, 2 delegates abstained

Council of Elders

The Council of Elders of the Congress of the Võro People is a permanent body tasked with implementing the decisions adopted by the Congress. It also serves to represent the Congress when the latter is not currently in session.

The Council operates as an Estonian non-profit association (MTÜ VÕRÕKÕISI KONGRESSI VANÕMBIDÕ KOGO) with Ülle Kauksi and Rainer Kuuba serving as the current board members.

It is composed of 11 members voted into position by the delegates from 19 initial candiates.

You can reach the Council at kontakt@vorokongress.ee

Membership

Rainer Kuuba – Chair of the Council (48 votes)
Ülle Kauksi – Deputy Chair (48 votes)
Hipp Saar (45 votes)
Mati Kuklane (37 votes)
Sulev Iva (37 votes)
Kertu Luisk (30 votes)
Anti Allas (23 votes)
Maarika Niidumaa (21 votes)
Inga Raitar (20 votes)
Külli Eichenbaum (substitute member; 10 votes)
Helen Rebane (substitute member; 9 votes)