Preserving cultural heritage is crucial for upholding identity, history, fostering social cohesion, and rebuilding society, especially during challenging times. In this newsletter, we’ll explore the impact of the war on cultural heritage in Ukraine and assess Ukrainians’ readiness to defend and preserve it. Additionally, we’ll unveil our upcoming festival, showcasing the significance of citizen participation in safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting social inclusion. Plus, we’ll share the latest updates from our civil society partners. Don’t miss out – keep reading and get inspired!
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Russia’s aggression inflicted significant damage on Ukraine’s cultural heritage. As reported by the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy, 945 cultural heritage sites were destroyed or damaged between February 24, 2022, and February 25, 2024. These included 293 architectural sites, 269 objects of urban design, 236 historical sites, and various others, spread across 17 regions. Encouragingly, our Civic Engagement Poll indicates that most Ukrainians are willing to support the restoration efforts for these invaluable assets. Namely, 74% of non-displaced Ukrainians (NDPs), 73% of internally displaced persons (IDPs), and 64% (EDPs) of externally displaced citizens are ready to do so. Moreover, most Ukrainians are aware of reporting on Russia’s damage to their country’s cultural heritage (NDPs – 77%, IDPs – 73%, EDPs – 55%).
Civil Society Highlights
USAID/ENGAGE to Host Art and Music Festival to Highlight Ukrainian Culture
On April 20, USAID/ENGAGE and the All-Ukrainian Association of Musical Events are organizing the “Proud to be Ukrainian” festival in Zaporizhzhia. This event aims to enhance citizens’ understanding of the significance of cultural heritage, particularly during times of war, while also promoting Ukrainian culture as an integral part of the European cultural landscape. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, lectures, masterclasses, and performances by renowned Ukrainian musical groups.
Entry is free with prior registration.
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Protecting Cultural Heritage Under Occupation: The Story of Elmira Ablyalimova from the Crimean Institute of Strategic Studies
In 2017, Elmira Ablyalimova was forced to leave Crimea due to political persecution of her family. Meanwhile, under the guise of restoration, Russia began to destroy the Bakhchisaray Khan’s Palace – the only example of Crimean Tatar palace architecture in the world. Elmira joined the Crimean Institute of Strategic Studies to document the crimes of Russians against the cultural heritage of her people. In 2022, the Institute expanded its work to the entire territory of Ukraine.
Today, the CISS website has recorded over 600 objects damaged by Russian aggression. The Institute’s team collaborates with the EU, PACE, and UNESCO to inform the world about Russia’s cultural crimes.
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All-Ukrainian Association of Music Events Gathers Festival Organizers in Solidarity for Ukraine During Wartime
From March 25-28, the All-Ukrainian Association of Music Events hosted the Music Ambassadors Tour 2024, bringing together creative minds from eleven European countries, including prominent festival organizers like Sziget, Pohoda, DAS FEST, and OpenAir St Gallen.
During their visit to Kyiv and the Chernihiv regions, participants engaged in fruitful exchanges with local activists and music industry representatives, fostering discussions on cultural development amidst wartime.
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Ukrainian Antiquity Lauches Project to Support Girls from Vulnerable Groups in Chernihiv Region
On March 27, Ukrainian Antiquity launched the educational initiative “Girl Power Ukraine” for 20 teenage girls residing in Ripky, Chernihiv Oblast. The initiative offers a training course and workshops aimed at uncovering the talents of the participants, supporting their career ambitions, teaching human rights, and combating violence and gender inequality.
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Bohdan Havrylyshyn Family Foundation Announces Ukrainian Youth Delegate to the UN 2024-2025 Program
The Bohdan Havrylyshyn Family Foundation announced an open call for submissions to the “Ukrainian Youth Delegate to the UN 2024-2025″ program. This program aims to involve young people in global decision-making, promote responsibility, and foster a dialogue between the Ukrainian government and youth. The application deadline is April 22.
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Opportunities
Career opportunities at ENGAGE!
- Arts and Culture Senior Program Officer: https://bit.ly/3xcy2up
- Researcher: https://bit.ly/3TyJkSg
- Procurement Officer: https://bit.ly/3VgW6Gd
- Finance Officer: https://bit.ly/3ThwF4D
- Program Officer, Reforms and Advocacy: https://bit.ly/3PioPGS
- Grants and Contracts Officer: https://bit.ly/4adjZCH
Opportunities at Pact:
- Grant competition in the field of improving access and services for the prevention, screening, diagnostics, and treatment of chronic noncommunicable diseases: https://bit.ly/49lE8FW
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What we read
Vladimir Putin is Losing Russia’s Long War against Ukrainian Identity
Today’s invasion is the latest chapter in a far longer history of Russian imperial aggression against Ukraine. For hundreds of years, Russia has used everything from language bans, targeted killings, mass deportations, and settler colonialism, to suppress Ukrainian national identity and force Ukrainians to abandon their quest for independence. Read the article by Danylo Lubkivsky, director of the Kyiv Security Forum, to learn why Russia will not succeed in erasing Ukraine.
