We had a unique opportunity to meet our professional colleagues working in Ukraine’s humanitarian sector. Iryna Vereshchuk, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, delivered a welcoming speech to the representatives of civil society organizations.

“We have become one of the best humanitarian operators in the world. Now we need to rally the support of the state, local authorities, and all of you”, said Iryna Vereshchuk, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine.

On behalf of President Zelenskyi and on my behalf, I would like to express my gratitude to our Ukrainian humanitarian operators. Your work is crucial. We highly appreciate what you have done when the war began, what you are doing now, and what you will do. People are counting on you and us. Some people have no one else to count on, and you know it.

I am grateful to our financial partners. It is clear that the amount of aid is decreasing as well as funding. What to do?

– Localization. Help Ukrainian humanitarian operators gain institutional capacity and develop. Ensure the necessary support to bring them up to par with international organizations. Aid with fundraising. Financial statement, quality in approaches.

You are highly motivated. During three years, you have acquired great capabilities, I have grown with you, watched you become better, institutionalized, and reached the international level. You are heard, moreover, respected in Brussels, in Washington, whenever it is necessary, and you are heard.”

“We understand the power of unity, and that is why we are so excited to organize such meetings for our partners so that you can get to know each other”, said Oleh Masyk, Humanitarian Aid Program Coordinator
Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

Iryna Andriivna emphasized the importance of localizing work in the humanitarian sector. Serge Oumow, Head of the Humanitarian Team of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), confirmed these words, as he repeatedly emphasized that the Embassy of Switzerland is very interested in cooperation with NGOs working in the field.

These are the civil society organizations that have received grants this year under the third phase of the Capable and Resistant Program, implemented by East Europe Foundation with the support of Switzerland.

Welcome again to our partner organizations, and thank you for your participation! Soon we will tell you more about the two intense days of this event, about our communication, and the memorable training.