Statement of the European Foundation Centre's 2014 Annual Conference (Sarajevo, May 15-17)
Statement of the European Foundation Centre’s 2014 Annual Conference
(Sarajevo, May 15-17)
Over 500 foundations and other philanthropic actors gathered in Sarajevo to reflect on the theme of Rethinking Europe: Solidarity, Civil Society and Political Governance. The current situation in Ukraine is weighing heavily on our minds.
There is a strong symbolism in meeting in the city of Sarajevo, where a hundred years ago the events that led to the devastating World War I started. We have chosen this place and this time for our meeting to show that we are determined to learn the lessons of the past to contribute to a free and peaceful Europe today and in the future. We are concerned that the Europe we work for is threatened by recent developments in Ukraine.
We have all been moved by the courage and perseverance of Ukrainian citizens who have shown their determination to create a better future for their country based on human rights and freedoms, rule of law and dignity. We are inspired by the determination with which Ukrainian civil society has worked to achieve these values and we trust that Ukrainian self-determination will be realised.
The memories from the Balkan wars make us conscious of the terrible toll that can result if the politics of peace do not prevail. As we fear the escalation of the current conflict in Ukraine may lead to more violence we must raise our voice. The European foundations assembled in Sarajevo stand together in solidarity with the Ukrainian people and civil society. Equally, we support those individuals and organisations that are fighting for these same values in Russia and other parts of Europe.
Aware of the lessons of the past and committed to peace, the foundations meeting in Sarajevo this week believe that there is only one way to resolve the situation: with constructive dialogue.
