Bridging Solidarity — Humanitarian-Political Mission to Ukraine
While headlines often fade as quickly as they appear, the ongoing struggle of Ukraine for freedom and sovereignty remains a vivid testament to resilience and unity.
Amidst this backdrop, Marta Barandiy, a leading advocate for Ukrainian victory and European integration, embarks on a poignant journey to Ukraine as a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Ukrainian people and the solidarity that binds them with their European allies.
Accompanied by Belgian Member of Parliament Georges Dallemagne and a team of journalists Pol Loncin (LN24), Valentin Dauchot (La Libre), this mission stands as a testament to the resilience and unyielding spirit of solidarity that defines the European response to aggression. This humanitarian-political mission, anchored in the shared principles of freedom, dignity, and sovereignty, underscores the pivotal role of civil society in bridging the divide between nations at war and the international community.
A Mission of Solidarity
With the support of Promote Ukraine on February 18, 2024, two vehicles, including an ambulance fully equipped for the frontline, set off toward Ukraine, carrying not just medical supplies but a message of support. Marta and Georges aim not only to deliver this humanitarian aid but also to connect with Ukrainian leaders and defense forces to show the collective will to stand firm against aggression, highlighting the crucial role everyone plays in securing victory.
This initiative serves as a potent reminder of the significant impact individuals and organizations can make in strengthening Ukraine’s resilience against hostility.
In response, Promote Ukraine urges participation in the March of Unity on February 25 in Brussels, symbolizing the power of unity in adversity. Event details are available on Promote Ukraine’s website and social media channels.
From Brussels to Ukraine: A Journey of Support
Marta Barandiy’s journey to Ukraine, which commenced on February 19, 2024, from Brussels, with a stop in Warsaw and Krakow before proceeding to Ukraine, aims to document and share insights through videos, providing a window into the trip’s experiences and the ongoing situation in Ukraine amidst war. This mission seeks to bring the realities of the war closer to the Belgian audience, reminding them of the ongoing conflict.
Georges Dallemagne, known for his extensive experience in healthcare, humanitarian efforts, and international politics, has been a vocal advocate for Ukraine, condemning russian aggression and calling for comprehensive support from the EU and the international community. His participation emphasizes the mission’s significance on the invasion’s second anniversary and the ongoing need for aid and support in Ukraine.
As Georges stated at the Brussels airport before the departure: “This is a very important trip on the second anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine by russia. We are there to support our friends in Ukraine and to discuss with them what additional help is needed. We will meet several people in Odesa, Kyiv, and Minsk… There is still a very big lack of aid, military aid in Ukraine. We will keep in touch during this trip”.
Dallemagne’s statement, emphasizing the significance of the trip on the second anniversary of the russian invasion, underlines the critical need for additional aid in Ukraine. This mission is not just about witnessing; it’s about engaging in meaningful dialogue to understand what more can be done and bring back vital information to influence governmental support and policy.
The Voice of Ukrainian Civil Society in Brussels
The significance of this journey extends beyond immediate aid delivery and highlights the critical nature of this moment. Their mission — to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom, assess additional assistance needs, and communicate these insights to the European community — demonstrates the importance of international solidarity.
The Role of Civil Society in International Solidarity
This mission exemplifies the vital role of civil society organizations like Promote Ukraine in bridging the gap between nations, rallying support, and advocating for those affected by conflict. Promote Ukraine continues to highlight the importance of cooperation, shared values, and actionable support for Ukraine within the European Union and beyond.
The journey of Marta and Georges is a beacon of hope and a call to action. By following their experiences through medium posts, social media updates, especially Marta’s Instagram stories, and the Promote Ukraine website, the global community is invited to stay informed and engaged. This mission underscores the ongoing need for support and the power of collective action in the face of adversity.
In these challenging times, the efforts of individuals like Marta Barandiy and Georges Dallemagne remind us of the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact of standing united in support of freedom, democracy, and peace.
Author: Max Stepanov
Notes
Georges Dallemagne
Georges Dallemagne, a Belgian politician, has a notable career marked by his involvement in healthcare, humanitarian efforts, and international politics, including strong support for Ukraine.
Career Background
- Dallemagne holds a degree in medicine and specializes in public health. Before entering politics, he worked in the medical field, focusing on public health initiatives.
- A member of the Humanist Democratic Centre (cdH), Dallemagne has served as a Member of the Belgian Federal Parliament. His political career reflects a solid commitment to social issues, healthcare, and international development.
- He has been involved in various parliamentary committees, especially those related to foreign affairs, public health, and social integration, showcasing his broad interests and expertise in both domestic and international affairs.
Support for Ukraine
- Dallemagne has been vocal in his support for Ukraine, especially in light of the russian aggression towards the country. He has publicly condemned russia’s actions and advocated for EU and international support for Ukraine.
- He has participated in and supported motions and resolutions that call for increased aid and support for Ukraine, emphasizing the need for a robust European response to the russia’s war on Ukraine.
- Demonstrating his commitment, Dallemagne has made several visits to Ukraine, including conflict zones, to assess the situation firsthand and show solidarity with the Ukrainian people.
- Through various media appearances and articles, Dallemagne has utilized his platform to raise awareness about the situation in Ukraine and to call for continued support and recognition of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- He has played a role in shaping Belgium’s stance towards Ukraine, advocating for policies that support Ukraine’s independence and European integration efforts.
Impact and Recognition
- Dallemagne is recognized for his expertise in foreign affairs, particularly regarding European neighborhood policy and humanitarian issues.
- His efforts have garnered attention beyond Belgium, making him a respected figure among those advocating for Ukraine and broader European security and democratic values.
Dallemagne’s career and activities reflect a commitment to leveraging his expertise and platform for humanitarian causes, healthcare improvement, and international solidarity, particularly with Ukraine during its challenging times.
Marta Barandiy
Marta Barandiy is a notable figure known for her expertise in international law, advocacy, and support for Ukraine, especially in the context of its geopolitical challenges and relations with the European Union.
Career Background
- Marta Barandiy holds advanced law degrees with a specialization in international law. Her academic pursuits have provided a strong foundation for her career in legal advocacy and international relations.
- She has worked in various capacities related to international law, diplomacy, and EU affairs. Her roles have often centered around advocating for human rights, legal reforms, and the strengthening of international law.
- Marta Barandiy is the founder of Promote Ukraine, a Brussels-based NGO. Promote Ukraine focuses on advocating for Ukraine’s interests in the EU and raising awareness about Ukraine’s political, economic, and cultural aspirations and challenges.
- Through her legal expertise, Barandiy has been involved in policy analysis, advocacy, and advising on matters related to EU-Ukraine relations, international law, and human rights.
Support for Ukraine
- Barandiy has been a strong advocate for Ukraine’s integration into the European Union, emphasizing the importance of aligning Ukraine’s legal and political frameworks with EU standards.
- Through Promote Ukraine, she has organized and participated in numerous conferences, seminars, and public awareness campaigns aimed at informing European audiences about Ukraine’s situation, its aspirations to join the EU, and the challenges it faces due to russian aggression.
- Barandiy has advocated for democratic reforms in Ukraine, emphasizing the rule of law, anti-corruption measures, and the importance of civil society in the democratic process.
- In response to the conflict in Eastern Ukraine and the annexation of Crimea by russia, Barandiy has been involved in humanitarian efforts, supporting displaced persons and advocating for the rights of those affected by the conflict.
- Marta Barandiy has utilized various media platforms to discuss issues related to Ukraine, including its legal battles, human rights issues, and European integration efforts. Her publications and appearances aim to provide insights and foster support for Ukraine on the international stage.
Impact and Recognition
- Through her work, Barandiy has become an influential voice, contributing to discussions on EU-Ukraine relations and advocating for policies that support Ukraine’s sovereignty and European aspirations.
- Her efforts have facilitated partnerships between Ukrainian organizations and their European counterparts, enhancing dialogue and cooperation on critical issues.
Marta Barandiy’s career and activities demonstrate a dedicated commitment to promoting Ukraine’s interests on the European stage, advocating for legal and democratic reforms, and supporting the Ukrainian community through both advocacy and humanitarian efforts.
