Freedom for Ukraine

Dear community, I decided not to post anything about marketing topics this week as not far away from my home country, a war is raging in Ukraine. Instead, I want to use this post to share with you my experiences during this time of crisis, not for self-promotion but because I think that everyone should use their voices now. Even if you think it might not have an impact, it does.????

I visited Liew in 2012 during the Euro. It was the first time I visited Ukraine and unfortunately, I have not been there since. To be honest, back then I wasn’t even fully aware of how much common history Liev and Austria shared. But the people I met there were open and welcoming and great hosts. Though having spent only a couple of days there I have fond memories of my time. Ukraine has never been part of the European Union, but I always considered Ukraine as part of Europe and my own experiences strengthened this perspective. I could have never imagined that we would have war in Europe ever again. Looking back this seems foolish and it’s heartbreaking to see Ukrainian people have to flee from their homes and leave behind their loved ones.?

At the same time, I am so impressed by how much humanity and empathy in particular Hungarian and Polish people are showing in providing food, shelter, and clothing to their neighbors. I have seen the transformation of the European Union from its foundation in 1993 to where we are now. And obviously, there have been many obstacles along the way and many times I had my doubts about whether its member countries would ever be able to overcome their individual interests and stand united for something greater than themselves. I can’t remember a time when Europe - including Switzerland and the UK - stood as united as they are doing right now.?

Putin counted on Europe being divided, but he now faces a united front. Putin counted on Ukraine surrendering, but its people keep fighting for their freedom to choose how they want to live. February 21st may be the day peace in Europe ended but I believe with all my heart, that it can be the hour of birth for a stronger, unified Europe. A Europe that includes Ukraine.

To quote Abraham Lincoln:

“We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory will swell when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature.”

If you want to help the Ukrainian people, here is one way: unhcr.org

Yours, Klaus Giller