The Watch Ukrainian Association has successfully organized over 800 cultural events across 268 cities in 55 countries since March 2022. These initiatives, ranging from film screenings and photo exhibitions to concerts and lectures, aim to share the Ukrainian experience of war and foster international partnerships.
Chairman Andriy Rizol highlights that these projects, executed without state funding, have raised approximately Hr. 16 million for Ukraine’s armed forces and military intelligence. Events have taken place at prestigious venues such as the Council of Europe, European Parliament, and UNESCO, showcasing the resilience and creativity of Ukrainian artists.
Key Initiatives and Projects
Among the association’s notable initiatives are the CinemAid Film Marathon, Culture vs War, The Will to Win, and Empowered. In 2024, Culture vs War evolved into the overarching brand for its cultural diplomacy efforts.
Rizol, also the CEO of Babylon and an honorary ambassador for cultural diplomacy, emphasizes the importance of using culture to communicate Ukraine’s narrative during wartime. He believes that artists often garner more trust from international audiences than politicians, making their stories of resistance and resilience crucial.
Building International Trust
Rizol explains that the association’s slogan, ‘Be Free to Create,’ encapsulates the desire for victory while emphasizing the need to articulate the reasons behind Ukraine’s struggle. Through the personal stories of artists like the band Antytila and poet Serhii Zhadan, the association aims to illustrate the fight for freedom and creativity.
The selection of protagonists for these projects is guided by shared values and genuine experiences of the war. This approach has resulted in several documentaries and short films that highlight the impact of the conflict on individual lives.
Collaboration with Government Entities
Rizol discusses the association’s collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which has been characterized by mutual respect and partnership. He notes the importance of cultural diplomacy in shaping Ukraine’s international image and strengthening its global presence.
In August 2024, Rizol was appointed as Honorary Ambassador of Ukraine for Cultural Diplomacy, allowing him to participate in international conferences and discussions that promote Ukraine’s cultural initiatives.
The Veterans’ Theater Project
The Veterans’ Theater project emerged from a creative session within the association, aiming to provide therapeutic opportunities for veterans while sharing the realities of war with international audiences. The flagship production, ‘Eneida,’ has garnered significant attention both domestically and abroad.
Vision for 2030
Looking ahead to 2030, Rizol envisions a Ukraine that is recognized as a reliable partner in the democratic world. He stresses the need to shift perceptions and showcase Ukraine’s innovations and cultural contributions, moving beyond narratives of suffering.
The Empowered project, supported by the European Union, aims to enhance Ukraine’s image as a nation of talented individuals capable of enriching global culture. Rizol believes that ambitious, systemic projects are essential for achieving tangible results in cultural diplomacy.
