Manifesto of Ukrainian Civil Society Organisations:

Ukraine in the European Elections 2024

Ahead of the European elections in 2024, the Ukrainian civil society organisations unite to present a manifesto that reflects our collective vision, values, and aspirations. Our mission is to advocate for the victory of Ukraine, sustainable peace and Ukraine's role in the European Union which we consider essential for upholding democracy, human rights, and prosperity on the European continent. We believe that Ukraine can contribute significantly to a stronger, more inclusive, and peaceful Europe. Our manifesto outlines the principles and priorities that we firmly believe resonate with millions of individuals across the European Union. We trust that our key points will find a place in the political agendas of European political parties.

I. The European Dream:

We believe that Ukraine's destiny is intertwined with Europe. We envision a future where Ukraine is fully integrated into the European family, benefiting from the shared values of democracy, freedom, and human rights. We call upon all European political parties to recognise Ukraine's aspirations in their programmes and actively support Ukraine's European integration.

Let us continue to build bridges of understanding, solidarity, and mutual respect, shaping a future where Ukraine stands shoulder to shoulder with its European counterparts, embodying the essence of a harmonious and interconnected European family.

II. Democracy and Rule of Law:

We maintain that democracy and the rule of law are essential prerequisites for a peaceful and prosperous Europe. Nevertheless, these fundamental principles face threats not only from Russia but also from various authoritarian regimes across the globe. European parties should unequivocally ensure their safeguarding at the national, European, and global levels.

It is with a heavy heart that we acknowledge the sacrifice of Ukraine's men, women, and even children in defence of these cherished principles. The brave souls who, in the face of russian terrorism and ruszist ideology, dedicate themselves to upholding democracy exemplify the very essence of the values we hold dear. As Ukraine loses its own in this noble cause, it serves as a poignant reminder of the urgency for European political parties to exhibit courage and solidarity. The threats to democracy and the rule of law are not mere abstract notions but stark realities faced by those on the front lines of the battle between democracy and autocracy. European parties must rise to the occasion, not only countering external pressures but also bolstering these principles domestically. Let the collective courage of nations fortify the foundation of our societies, ensuring that the sacrifices made by Ukraine's sons and daughters inspire a Europe that stands unwavering in the defense of democracy and the rule of law, both within and beyond its borders.

III. Peace and Security:

We endorse the Sustainable Peace Manifesto and call on all European parties to include it in their programmes.

Ukraine must be supported militarily, economically and politically to its full victory and withdrawal of Russian troops from all occupied territories.

For sustainable international security, justice and peace must be achieved simultaneously.

This means that Russia must bear full responsibility for the war and be held fully accountable.

War criminals must be punished: for their aggression, for their war crimes, for their crimes against humanity and genocide, and for inciting hatred, which led to a war that was previously unthinkable in the 21st century.

Not all losses can be compensated. Hundreds of thousands of people have died, millions have lost their loved ones, tens of millions have lost years of their lives. But all material damage must be properly appraised and compensation paid, and all losses should be compensated to the maximum extent possible.

Russia must suffer a loss of status. It should not be allowed to influence international politics through international organisations. An aggressor cannot be a member of the UN Security Council, whose core mission is to guarantee peace.

Russia's withdrawal from Ukraine must recognise the priority of the interests of Ukrainian society and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine; all legislation enacted in the occupied territories must be made null and void.

Ukraine is entitled not only to demand justice for the crimes committed by Russia, but also to receive unambiguous guarantees of sustainable peace in the future.

Ukraine's accession to the European Union and NATO is the number one prerequisite for sustainable peace.

Western societies must cast aside their stereotypes about Russian grandeur as nurtured by Russian propaganda over the centuries, fuelling its imperial aggression and colonial policies towards neighbouring countries.

Russia must bring its constitutional system, social structure and political systems in line with modern-day standards. Debunking the concept of “Ruskiy Mir” (the “Russian world”) will create the conditions for the further transformation of public consciousness that would drive the decolonization of the country.

The process of “derashization” must begin by vanquishing its imperial historical memory, meaning Russia must reject ideas of its historical exceptionalism as a separate civilization and notions of its supremacy, as well as its territorial claims to neighbouring countries.

Abandoning Russian energy will deprive Russia of the opportunity to use it as a weapon and accelerate the transition to green energy.

IV. Economic Prosperity:

We aim for a prosperous Ukraine in the EU that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. We call for policies that create a favourable business environment, fight corruption, and ensure the equitable distribution of wealth.

Millions of Ukrainians residing in the European Union constitute an invaluable asset, capable of delivering benefits to both EU countries and Ukraine through the exchange of knowledge and experience. This has the potential to significantly contribute to Ukraine's reconstruction endeavours. We strongly advocate for the development of programmes that endorse circular migration and the establishment of businesses that can foster closer mutually beneficial economic connections between Ukraine and EU member states.

V. European Solidarity:

Today, as Europe faces the grave threat of Russia's colonial war against democratic nations and European values, it is crucial to draw inspiration from the spirit of unity and solidarity displayed during the Marshall Plan era. European nations must stand together, just as they did in the post-war period, to resist this significant threat. By working collectively, they can protect their democratic ideals, defend their sovereignty, and ensure the safety and prosperity of their citizens in the face of one of the most significant challenges since World War II.

VI. Environmental Stewardship:

We are dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability and combatting climate change. We advocate for responsible environmental policies and the shift towards a sustainable, eco-friendly economy. Safeguarding our planet is a collective obligation shared by all Europeans.

The ongoing ecological harms caused by Russia in Ukraine, exemplified by the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam, underscores the critical need for all EU nations to acknowledge and pursue those responsible for ecocide and similar environmental catastrophes. We urge European parties to incorporate ecocide as a crime against humanity into their national legislation.

VII. European Identity and Culture:

We celebrate the diversity of European cultures and languages. We encourage the preservation of cultural heritage and the promotion of intercultural dialogue. A strong Europe embraces its rich tapestry of identities.

In response to Russia's systematic crimes against Ukrainian culture, we recommend that European parties take a resolute stance against these actions. This involves condemning Russia's deliberate destruction of Ukrainian cultural heritage, recognising it as part of a wider pattern of offences.

European parties should extend support for cultural preservation efforts by providing financial and logistical assistance to Ukrainian cultural institutions and organisations striving to safeguard and restore valuable artefacts and artworks that have been damaged or stolen. Additionally, fostering partnerships with European museums and cultural entities can be instrumental in recovering and rehabilitating stolen cultural treasures.

Furthermore, they should engage in advocacy for international awareness by utilising diplomatic channels, media platforms, and public discourse to shed light on Russia's cultural crimes in Ukraine. Collaborating with international bodies like UNESCO, they should underscore the significance of preserving Ukrainian cultural heritage on a global scale.

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As we move forward, united in our vision, we invite European citizens to join us in supporting a stronger Europe. Together, we can build a continent that values freedom, democracy, and human rights, where all nations, including Ukraine, contribute to a brighter future for generations to come.