The partnership under the memorandum comprises implementation of a number of joint initiatives, including support for new DOCU/CLUB Network film clubs abroad, organization of documentary film screenings for Ukrainian communities and international audiences, participation in international events and public discussions, as well as efforts to raise global awareness of Russia’s war crimes in Ukraine.
“The image and reputation of a country are shaped not only through official state communication but also in cooperation with civil society. That is why the Ministry of Foreign Affairs actively supports partnerships with non-government organizations that help Ukraine speak to the world in the language of culture, human rights, and truth,” emphasized Viktoria Lialina-Boiko, Director of the Department of Public Diplomacy and Communications.
Cultural diplomacy of Ukraine during wartime involves fostering open dialogue and intercultural connections, engaging with citizens of other countries, and involving artists and civil society representatives in this communication. All of this is vital in the face of mounting challenges such as combating disinformation, strengthening national resilience, and ensuring continued international support for Ukraine.
Svitlana Smal, Executive Director of the NGO Docudays, emphasized that documentary films have the power to convey the truth directly, via personal stories, lived experiences, and human pain:
“We firmly believe that, through these human stories, Ukraine can reach the hearts of people in countries unaffected by this war. Our partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs opens up greater opportunities for international dialogue, allowing us to tell the story of contemporary Ukraine and its struggle. This cooperation will enable us to broaden the reach of our projects and bring the voices of Ukrainians to the global community.”
During the meeting dedicated to the signing of the memorandum, Viktoria Lialina-Boiko, Director of the Department of Public Diplomacy and Communications of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine; Svitlana Smal, Executive Director of the NGO Docudays; Iryna Shum, Head of the Image Projects Division of the Department of Public Diplomacy and Communications; and Uliana Osovska, Attaché of the Image Projects Division, discussed the implementation of joint projects, cultural initiatives, and public discussions aimed at amplifying Ukraine’s voice on the global scale. This cooperation is expected to focus on countering disinformation, raising awareness of the consequences of Russian aggression, promoting human rights issues, and expanding international partnerships in the field of cultural diplomacy.
We firmly believe that collaboration and combined efforts of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and the NGO Docudays will contribute to strengthening international support for Ukraine at all levels and reinforcing the country’s resilience in the face of global challenges.
Development of the DOCU/CLUB Network is funded by the Embassy of Sweden in Ukraine and the National Endowment for Democracy (NED).
The opinions, conclusions or recommendations do not necessarily reflect the views of respective governments or charitable organizations of these countries. The author(s) of this publication are solely responsible for its content.
