In parallel with our 4th International Forum on European Ukraine, which brings together key civil society actors from Ukraine and other European countries to discuss steps to end the war, support the population and rebuild the country, the leaders of the world’s major economies are meeting at the G20 Summit in Indonesia. Under the motto “Recover Together, Recover Stronger” the Russian war of aggression on Ukraine will also be a major topic, as it threatens the continuation of a stable international security architecture and the acceptance of international law.

As representatives of Ukrainian civil society and its European partners, we welcome the international efforts for peace as well as the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and also the willingness of states to help Ukraine in its reconstruction. However, we also have clear expectations of the international community.

Decisions on Ukraine not over Ukrainian heads

Russian aggression against Ukraine did not start on 24 February this year, but already with the invasion of Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine in 2014. The past teaches us: a political freezing of the conflict does not end the war, but prolongs it into the future. At the same time, it hinders Ukraine’s development. It is therefore right to leave it up to Ukraine to decide when to negotiate and under what conditions. The international demands for peace must be directed at the Russian side: immediate ceasefire, complete withdrawal of the Russian army and the full restoration of Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty within the borders of 1991. Furthermore, comprehensive security guarantees are needed to prevent possible new conflicts. Ukraine’s overwhelming will for European and Euro-Atlantic integration must be taken into account.

Ukraine’s vibrant civil society and its involvement in the reconstruction of the country

Ukraine is home to a particularly active civil society which has been a guarantor of the country’s democratic development for many years. Whenever democratic principles were undermined by fraud or corruption, civil society offered resolute resistance. And it has always accompanied political reforms critically and constructively. It protects human rights, provides political education and articulates socio-political developments and needs from Ukraine. Even in the ongoing war, Ukrainian civil society contributes significantly to the country’s resilience against the invasion. It provides humanitarian aid, document war crimes, organize the exchange of information and also mobilize international political, military, humanitarian and financial support for Ukraine.

The potential of this civil society should be used now – during the war – and also in the reconstruction of Ukraine, its ongoing need for democratization and the country’s European integration. Civil society in Ukraine can make a decisive contribution if it is closely involved in decision-making at all levels.

The united and decisive support of the entire democratic world is required to stop the Russian aggression. For a free and democratic Ukraine and for a peaceful coexistence of democratic nations!