22. March 2023

Civic engagement and voluntary work in Ukraine

We remain shocked, saddened and concerned about the situation in Ukraine.

Our colleagues, friends and volunteers who have worked with us for international understanding in recent years continue to fear for their safety, just like many other people. We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and support the reception of all people fleeing the affected areas. Our thoughts are also with our Russian colleagues, friends and volunteers who are working against the war.

For IBG, peace, understanding, respect and solidarity are the cornerstones on which a society must be built.

Erasmus+ Project Peacebuilding through Workcamps (PEWO)

We want to make a contribution to peace and international understanding. However, we are not an emergency aid organization and do not have the capacity and skills to coordinate and organize practical offers of help.

In the Erasmus+ project 'Peacebuilding through Workcamps (PEWO)' we are working together with our partner organization INEX-SDA in the Czech Republic this year to support Workcamps as effective instruments of post-war reconciliation. In doing so, we plan to focus on supporting our partner organizations in Ukraine and continuing to build respect and understanding between nations, which is essential for lasting peace.

From April 13th to 17th we will meet with experienced trainers, camp leaders and volunteers from several countries in Prague to discuss methods and tools for dealing with the topic of war, peace work and e.g. emotional situations and conflicts in international Workcamps create. If you are interested in becoming part of the project, just send us a message.

Other ways we can all continue to get involved

  •      Demonstrating: Peaceful demonstrations against the war in Ukraine are still taking place around the world. You can search for demos near you here. Stand up for democracy and peace and show solidarity. But also find out in advance whether you agree with the thrust of the respective demo.
  •      Monetary or material donations: Before you donate clothing or food, always find out exactly what is really needed and by whom. Monetary donations are usually more effective and sensible.
  •      Support local initiatives and networks: You can get information from your city administration or from local non-profit organizations for which activities volunteer helpers are currently needed or for which they will be needed in the coming weeks.
  •      Inform: Inform yourself and share information with your friends, family and acquaintances. You can find a lot of information under #standwithukraine on social media. However, always make sure that you refer to trustworthy sources.

How can our support as a Workcamp organization continue?

We would like to invite you to share your ideas and suggestions with us. Write us an email or contact us in the office.