Press Release, 14 August 2023, Kyiv
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Kyiv’s Mayor Vitali Klitschko signs Partnership with European Capital of Democracy
Kyiv, Ukraine – A delegation of the European Capital of Democracy (ECoD) marked a momentous occasion during its two-day visit to Kyiv. Mayor Vitali Klitschko signed a Memorandum of Understanding on a special partnership regarding Kyiv´s role within the ECoD Initiative and its city network.
While it will not be possible for cities in Ukraine to compete for the title of European Capital of Democracy as long as the war is ongoing, Kyiv has entered a special partnership with the European Capital of Democracy initiative to showcase its outstanding achievements in the field of democracy and participation. This underscores the diverse avenues through which cities are embracing democratic ideals. While the cities Bratislava, Cascais, Durrës, Gdansk, İzmir, Leipzig, Tirana, and Vienna are competing for the European Capital of Democracy 2024/25 title, Kyiv’s role highlights the multifaceted nature of collaboration within the network.
Mayor Vitali Klitschko of Kyiv expressed his enthusiasm for this special partnership, stating,
“No fight, no win – we are fighting for our values, principles and democracy. The democratic future of Europe depends on the fight of democratic Ukraine. That is why we are delighted to join forces with the European Capital of Democracy initiative.”
Throughout the visit, the delegation from the European Capital of Democracy engaged in meetings and exchanges with the leadership of the Kyiv City State Administration, and civil society, gaining a deeper understanding of the city’s efforts to promote democracy and foster a strong dialogue with its citizens. The delegation also went to the site of the Borodyanka massacre committed by the Russian forces at the beginning of the war and was given a first hand explanation of historic events by the head of the rescue services of the city.
Helfried Carl, Founder of the European Capital of Democracy and head of the delegation lauded Kyiv’s ambitious approach, noting, “Kyiv’s history of a strong and resilient civil society battling for democracy aligns seamlessly with our vision. This alliance further reflects the spirit of unity and diversity that defines the European Capital of Democracy initiative and our support to Ukraine’s defence of democracy against the Russian aggressors.”
About European Capital of Democracy:
The European Capital of Democracy initiative was launched by ECoD gemeinnützige GmbH together with The Innovation in Politics Institute, with offices in Vienna and Berlin and partners in 16 European countries. The title of European Capital of Democracy is awarded to a different city each year. Currently the title-holding city is Barcelona, commencing its Programme Year on October 5th 2023.
For more information about the European Capital of Democracy, please visit https://capitalofdemocracy.eu.
Contact:
Stefan Sindelar, CEO
shs@capitalofedemocracy.eu
+43 650 5608830