The Russian attack on Ukraine has unleashed a weave of solidarity in Europe. Besides concrete humanitarian aid operation, many European cities cooperate with Ukrainian cities in order to help Ukraine with reconstruction. The cooperation between Hamburg and Kiev within the framework Pact of Solidarity and Future is an example of this bilateral cooperation. This theme was also part of Hamburg’s European Weeks. „Europe Together – Civilian Support, Reconstruction and Cooperation. How do Europe and Hamburg help Ukraine?” was the title of a panel discussion that took place at Hamburg City Hall on 5th May 2023.
State Councillor Almut Möller, authorised representative of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg to the Confederation, the European Union and for Foreign Affairs, Dr Sergey Lagodinsky (Bündnis 90/Die Grünen), member of the European Parliament, Dr Anna Kreikemeyer, senior researcher at the IFSH and André Sobczak, Secretary General of the Urban Network Eurocities discussed among each other and the audience. The discussion was moderated by the journalist (e.g. Welt a. Sonntag) Jana Werner.
It has once again become apparent that a large amount of humanitarian aid has been provided at various political and civil society levels since the beginning of the Russian war of aggression. Despite enormous financial and practical efforts, it is crucial to continue these efforts, according to the panelists. It is even particularly important to anchor reconstruction in society. Only by getting known to each other and by personal encounters with Ukrainians and Europeans can a solid foundation for sustainable understanding be created.
As part of the European Week, citizens could attend more than 50 information and discussion events on EU topics in the fields of politics and culture until the end of May.