Suffering in Silence?

About the event

This event is the first in a ten-part series, which will shine a light on the "ten most under-reported humanitarian crises in 2020". In cooperation with CARE Germany e.V., the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom invites you to reflect on the current crisis in Eastern Ukraine.

2020 was a year like no other. The entire world fundamentally changed in the way it operates. COVID-19 case numbers, vaccinations and border closures captivated the media. Yet civil unrest, wars and natural disasters did not stop for COVID-19. In humanitarian crises, people do not have the option to “stay home”. Especially in 2020, the worldwide attention was directed towards domestic events and the pandemic.

We read less about the 3.4 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in Ukraine, than about Kanye West’ short-lived ambition as presidential candidate. Shelling, decline in economic activity, destroyed infrastructure, fires and additionally COVID-19 have created a humanitarian crisis on the border of Europe, currently affecting more than 5 million people. Elderly, women, people living with disabilities and children account for those most affected.

What political and historical background does this conflict have? What is Europe's and Germany's view and what role does Russia play? What humanitarian situation is developing on the ground and how is civil society affected? Why does the media direct our attention to some news, but under-reports on the conflict in Donbass? Are there solutions how this crisis can be mitigated in the years to come? We hereby invite you to examine and ask these questions in conversation with international actors. You are also cordially invited to tune in for FNF's next events on the under-reported humanitarian crises: 18th of May on the Central African Republic and 31st of May on Burundi. We look forward to seeing you there.