Drum circle. Welcoming remarks by distinguished guests. Keynote speech by Maksym Butkevych

In partnership with Ukraїner

A discussion with Ukrainian intellectuals about the resilience of Ukrainian society and the role of the civic sector in the ongoing struggle. Participants will discuss the strategic challenges Ukraine faces in the context of war, as well as ways to overcome social and economic difficulties. Over the past year, Ukraїner has been exploring issues of identity and visions for the future through in-depth interviews with Ukrainian intellectuals. This event will serve as a platform for discussion, exchanging ideas, and finding new solutions to strengthen Ukraine.

Speakers:
- Vitaliy Portnikov, publicist and journalist
- Lyubov Shypovych, founder and director of the Dignitas Charity Foundation
- Yevhen Holovakha, director of the Institute of Sociology at the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
- Ella Libanova, director of the Ptukha Institute of Demography and Social Studies at the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
- Yevhen Hlibovytsky, director of the "Frontier Institute," member of the Supervisory Board of Public Broadcasting
Moderator:
Yulia Tymoshenko, host at Ukraїner

- United Nations Development Programme, Viktoriia Demidova, Project Manager for "Support to Civil Society and Youth"
- International Visegrad Fund, Yelyzaveta Kushyk, Project Manager
- USAID and UK International Development Program "Promoting Integrity in the Public Sector" (Pro-Integrity), Yuliia Yesmukhanova, Deputy Chief of Party
- International Renaissance Foundation, Inna Pidluska, Deputy Executive Director
- EU Anti-Corruption Initiative in Ukraine (EUACI), Iryna Shyba, Deputy Program Director
- Veterans’ Reintegration Program (IREX), Yana Voitovska, Program Manager
- Rapid Response Fund (IREX), Viktoriia Klymchuk-Dluhach, Senior Program Manager
- House of Europe, Daria Kostiuk, Alumni Community Manager
- East Europe Foundation, Vira Nedzvedska, Vice President for Strategic Partnerships
- USAID/Harvest, Iryna Ivanova, Team Lead for Market Systems Support
- European Endowment for Democracy, Nataliia Klochun, Program Consultant in Ukraine
- Ukrainian-Danish Youth House, Danish Cultural Institute Office in Ukraine, Andrii Marushchak, Program Manager
- Program «Social Protection for Inclusion, Resilience, Innovation and Transformation (SPIRIT)», Rachel Kean, Head of Social Recovery and Inclusion, British Embassy Kyiv
- ISAR Ednannia, Anna Ostrikova, Manager of Grant and Development Programs

In partnership with UNDP in Ukraine

How can we maintain a sense of unity without avoiding difficult topics for discussion? How polarized are we, and how do destructive informational influences affect us? How does rethinking the informational and cultural space help counter external influences and strengthen resilience?
Speakers:
Representative of UNDP (TBC)
- Ana Lukatela, Head of Area-Based Recovery, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine
- Olha Aivazovska, Head of the Board, Civil Network "OPORA"
- Tetiana Troshchynska, Journalist, Media Manager, Laureate of the Gongadze Prize 2024
- Tamila Tasheva, Permanent Representative of the President of Ukraine in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea (2022-2024)
- Anastasiia Obraztsova, Executive Director, Ukrainian Cultural Foundation
- Dmytro Zolotukhin, Executive Director, NGO "Institute of Post-Information Society"
Moderator:
Taras Liutyi, Philosopher, Writer

In partnership with the Kultnastup Initiative

National identity serves as the cornerstone upon which state unity, security, economic development, and a country’s global influence are built. The current war is, above all, a war for identity, with language, culture, and cultural products acting not only as the building blocks of a nation but also as powerful weapons. The cultural and informational space is a crucial battlefield, and an assertive cultural policy is an essential prerequisite for our victory. Ukraine possesses all the tools for such a policy to succeed; the key lies in recognizing this and transitioning to decisive and consistent actions.
Speakers:
- Ivan Malkovych, Poet and Publisher, A-BA-BA-HA-LA-MA-HA Publishing House
- Oles Sanin, Film Director, Actor, Producer, Vice President of the National Academy of Arts of Ukraine
- Serhiy Zhadan, Writer, Poet, Public Activist, and Serviceman of the Khartia Brigade (online)
- Taras Topolia, Lead Singer of the Band "Antytila," Volunteer
- Olena Kovalska, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine (TBC)
- Taras Shamayda, Co-coordinator of the "Prostir Svobody" Movement, Coordinator of the "Kulturnastup" Initiative
Moderator:
Anastasiia Rozlutska, Founder of the Educational Platform "E-Mova," Head of NGO "Ukrainian World"

In partnership with Bilka Publishing House
This panel discussion will explore the critical role of literature in documenting war. Speakers will delve into how authors and researchers tackle the subject of war, overcoming emotional and ethical challenges. Participants will share insights into how literature helps society comprehend events, honor heroes, and preserve memories for future generations. In a time when the information front is as crucial as the military front, the discussion will underscore why silence is not an option and how words can serve as a powerful weapon in the fight for freedom and truth.
Speakers:
- Anton Semenov, Social Psychologist, Founder of the Volunteer Project "How Are You, Brother?"
- Marina Riabchenko, PhD in Philology, Literary Scholar, Researcher of War Literature
- Dmytro Vovnyanko, Writer, Blogger, and War Veteran
- Tamara Horikha-Zernia, Writer, Translator, Recipient of the 2022 Shevchenko Prize and the BBC Book of the Year Award 2019

In partnership with International Renaissance Foundation
In Ukraine, there is a growing interest in culture, particularly literature. In contrast, Europe and the United States are witnessing a decline in the popularity of reading, especially printed books. With the rise of digital entertainment, social media, and video content, books are losing their status as a primary leisure activity. In Ukraine, however, studies, including those by the Ukrainian Book Institute, show a steady increase in reading habits among citizens. This public discussion seeks to explore the factors behind these trends and their implications for civil society in Ukraine. Experts, researchers, and intellectuals will examine how this cultural phenomenon strengthens resilience and defense in challenging times, while addressing the opportunities and challenges it presents for the future.
Speakers:
- Oleksandra Koval, Director of the Ukrainian Book Institute
- Vitaliy Portnykov, Publicist, Writer, Journalist, Laureate of the Shevchenko Prize, Member of PEN Ukraine
- Kateryna Kalytko, Poet, Translator, Laureate of the Shevchenko Prize, Member of PEN Ukraine
- Oleksii Erinchak, Entrepreneur, IT Specialist, Founder and Owner of “Sens” Bookstores in Kyiv
- Sofiia Cheliak, Journalist at Frontliner, Member of PEN Ukraine, Program Director of the Lviv Book Forum, Advisor to the Mayor of Lviv on Publishing Affairs
Moderator:
Radoslava Kabachii

In partnership with International Renaissance Foundation

During an open conversation with Andriy Kurkov, we will discuss how art becomes an island of strength and hope in challenging times, why cultural diplomacy is a crucial tool for amplifying Ukraine's voice on the global stage, and how book clubs in Ukraine are transforming into spaces for unity, critical thinking, and mutual support. This conversation is about us — how each of us can find inspiration and support in culture. The interview with Andriy Kurkov will be conducted by Inna Pidluska, Deputy Director of the International Renaissance Foundation.

ISAR Ednannia

This is an exciting speed-dating-style activity. Participants will rotate between tables, presenting their favorite books and answering themed questions. Everyone will have the chance to share how a book impressed them and inspire others to add it to their reading lists. It’s an opportunity to discover new ideas, meet fascinating conversation partners, and find literary inspiration!

1. Win-Win For Business and Civil Society(Arsenal-Lviv)
2. How Online Education Changes the Game (Cossack Guard of Ukraine, Society Development Academy)
3. How to Engage Volunteers of the World: Wikipedia’s Experience (Wikimedia Ukraine)
4. Act Locally: Educational Solutions and Spaces for Humanitarian Aid (Humanitarian Leadership Academy)
5. Why Aid Is Required Beyond Frontline Areas: Needs of Host Communities (East SOS)
6. How to Support Veteran and Social Businesses (This is Craft, Agency for Regional Development of the Tavriysk Union of Territorial Communities)
7. Patients’ Rehabilitation: From First Steps to Complex Cases (Patients of Ukraine)
8. Awareness Territory: How to Build Communities and Engage Sustainable Partnerships (aWARe Zone Youth Hub)
9. Teaching Experience in Small Communities (Teach for Ukraine)
10. Regional Office of ActionAid: Experience in Supporting Local Organizations in Humanitarian Response (ActionAid)

1. Evacuating People with Disabilities from the Frontline: Human Rights and Dignity (East SOS)
2. FreedomWalk: Accessibility on the Map (FreedomWalk)
3. High-Quality Community Recovery Plan: Focus on Environment (ZURC)
4. Trends in Partnerships Between Local and International CSOs (Mercy Corps)
5. Managing Projects with a Focus on Values (Curly Management Bureau)
6. Interactive Learning in Ukraine:Growth Points (Dobra.Dolja)
7. MOYE Program:Youth Choosing Unity (Berezan Community Foundation)
8. Strategic Leadership Amid Challenges: Rebuilding Kherson Oblast (City of Strength)
9. Local Food: Economic and Educational Potential of Communities (Silent Food of Ukraine)
10. The Future is Female: How Impact Force Supports Women in Building Businesses from Scratch Today (Impact Force)

1. How to Overcome Emotional and Professional Burnout (Vilna Space)
2. Collaboration in International Projects Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps (SVOI)
3. (Im)Mature Diplomacy (Ukrainian Guides Association)
4. Why Art Therapy Helps Children During War (United Help Ukraine)
5. Team Communication: Online vs Offline (WE WORLD)
6. How Communities Can Become Key Players in the Carbon Market (ZURC)
7. Why are Strategic Communications Important for the Civil Society Sector? (Alliance for Strategic Communications, Pravotvorets Initiative)
8. From the 1900s until Now: How to Maintain Sustainability of a Charity Organization? (Sheptytsky Hospital)
9. How Interactive Participation Can Help to Recover and Develop Small Communities (U Renew)

1. Video Success Stories: How to Showcase the Impact Your Organization Makes in Society (National Media Association)
2. Organizing Effective Programs to Address Learning Loss: Lessons Learned (Teach For Ukraine)
3. Participatory Recovery Practices: Youth Engagement in Ukraine’s Recovery Processes (Building Ukraine Together)
4. Importance of Supporting Orphans Amidst the War (Grow in a Family)
5. Resilience Centers: Unseen Opportunities (Fox House)
6. Art and Mental Health (Pyaternya)

In partnership with the League of the Strong

In partnership with Ukrainska Pravda

In times of war, Ukraine showcases a unique example of resilience in upholding democratic values and freedom of speech. During the panel, speakers will discuss how Ukrainian society maintains democracy even under the most challenging conditions, the obstacles faced by media and civil society organizations, and the critical role journalists play in safeguarding civil liberties and ensuring government transparency. Ukrainska Pravda, the country’s leading independent online media outlet, plays a pivotal role in highlighting democratic processes, providing oversight, and offering critical analysis of government actions.
Speakers: - Olha Aivazovska, Chair of the Board, Civil Network OPORA
- Zoya Kazanzhy, Journalist, Writer, Media Trainer
- Andriy Kulykov, Journalist, Radio Host, Media Expert, Head of the Commission on Journalistic Ethics
- Valeriy Pekar, Entrepreneur, Publicist, Lecturer at the Kyiv-Mohyla Business School
- Yuliya Kyrychenko, Board Member at the Center of Policy and Legal Reform, Project Leader on Constitutional Law, Co-chair of the Reanimation Package of Reforms Council
Moderator:
Roman Romaniuk, Political Analyst at "Ukrainska Pravda"

In partnership with Pro-Integrity: Promoting Integrity in the Public Sector

During the discussion, we will explore answers to the question: Is tolerating corruption our subconscious choice, or is it a flaw in the system that we must overcome? We will delve into the culture of tolerating corruption in Ukraine. On the one hand, society demands absolute honesty from officials, yet on the other, it tolerates minor acts of corruption in everyday life. Corruption is an interaction between two parties: those who take and those who give. Why does this happen? Is it the system's fault, or is it also rooted in ourselves? Are we ready for real change, and do we genuinely want it? What can each of us do in our own role to prevent corruption from being exploited for hype?
Speakers:
- Vitaliy Deinega, Civic Activist, Founder of the "Ukrainian Witness" Project, Initiator of "I'm Fine," and Founder of the "Come Back Alive" Foundation
- Andriy Zelinskyy, Military Chaplain of the UGCC, Co-founder of the Ukrainian Leadership Academy, Lecturer at UCU
- Hanna Hopko, Civic Activist, Journalist, Chair of the Board of the NGO "Network for the Protection of National Interests 'ANTS'," Co-founder of the International Center for Ukrainian Victory
- Yuriy Nikolov, Investigative Journalist, "Nashi Hroshi" Project
- Nataliia Aliushyna, Head of the National Agency of Ukraine on Civil Service
Moderator:
Lesya Ostrovska-Liuta, Director of Mystetskyi Arsenal

In partnership with SCMU

During the discussion, we will explore the irreversibility of our shared path and the power of unity. Together, we will seek answers to key questions: What forms the foundation of successful collaboration between the government and the civil society sector? Are the intentions of both sides genuine? Who stands to benefit the most from such cooperation? Do we trust each other? Is this collaboration a response to external pressures and demands, or is it a natural necessity to strengthen one another in the face of a common threat and to achieve shared goals?
Speakers:
- Oleksandr Yarema, State Secretary of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine
- Oksana Zholnovych, Minister of Social Policy of Ukraine (TBC)
- Oleksandr Banchuk, Deputy Minister of Justice of Ukraine
- Mykola Borovets, Mayor of Zviahel
- Volodymyr Sheyhus, Executive Director of ISAR Ednannia
- Halyna Skipalska, Executive Director of the International Charitable Foundation "Ukrainian Foundation for Public Health"
Moderator:
Larysa Denysenko, Ukrainian Writer, Lawyer, Human Rights Advocate, and TV Host

In partnership with the International Renaissance Foundation

The fight against evident injustice has become a unifying factor for Ukrainian society. However, while people often agree on what is unjust, their visions of justice can vary significantly, leading to polarized positions and plans. Individuals driven by their personal understanding of justice can sometimes act in ways that are highly destructive. How can we prevent this? Can justice become a shared, unifying goal for Ukrainian society? What risks and obstacles exist? Is there truly a strong demand for justice? How do we define justice, and how does our individual and collective experience shape its meaning? Which elements of the pursuit of justice should be foundational, and which should be complementary—punishment for crimes, reparations, preservation of memory, and so forth?
Speakers:
- Anhelina Koriakina, Co-founder of the Laboratory of Public Interest Journalism
- Maksym Ieligulashvili, "Ukraine. 5 AM" Coalition Expert
- Maksym Butkevych, Human Rights Activist, Journalist, Public Figure, and Military Serviceman
- Olesia Ostrovska-Liuta, Director of the National Art, Culture, and Museum Complex "Mystetskyi Arsenal"
- Olha Dukhnich, Head of the "Demography and Migration" Department at the Frontier Institute (TBC)
- Oksana Dovhopolova, Doctor of Philosophy, Curator of the Memory Culture Platform Past/Future/Art, Professor at Kyiv School of Economics (TBC)
Moderator:
Larysa Denysenko, Ukrainian Writer, Lawyer, Human Rights Advocate, and TV Host

In partnership with Come Back Alive Foundation

During the discussion, we will explore the prioritization of the military for the survival of a nation in the context of a prolonged war. Participants will examine key aspects such as how to prepare effectively for war while maintaining economic stability and avoiding internal exhaustion.
Speakers:
- Arsen “Lemko” Dmytryk, Battalion Commander of the 12th Special Purpose Brigade "Azov," National Guard of Ukraine
- Nataliya Kryvda, Doctor of Philosophy, Professor at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Chair of the Supervisory Board of the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation
- Oleh Karpenko, Deputy Director of the "Come Back Alive" Foundation
- Mykola Bєlieskov, Senior Analyst at the "Come Back Alive" Initiative Center
- Kateryna Chernogorenko, Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine for Digital Development, Transformation, and Digitalization (TBC)
- Yuriy Melnyk, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of MHP, Head of the Sustainability Directorate at MHP
Moderator:
Akhtem Seitablaiev

This panel discussion will serve as a platform to reimagine veteran policy in Ukraine and transition from a paternalistic approach to a partnership model between veterans, society, and the state. The discussion emphasizes the principle "Nothing for Veterans Without Veterans," advocating for a new governance culture where veterans' voices are integral to policymaking. Their lived experiences, combined with insights into the consequences of war, can significantly enhance the quality of government decisions and programs. The event will provide a space for constructive dialogue between the government, veterans, and international partners.
Speakers:
- Matthew Johnson, Political Section Advisor, U.S. Embassy
- Yuriy Hudymenko, Combat Veteran, Public Activist
- Leda Kosmachevska, Partner of Fallen Combat Medic of the 77th Mechanized Brigade, Valentyn Dobryi
- Daria Tsepkova, representative of GSC Game World (developer of Stalker 2), narrative designer, and localizer
- Nadiya Haran, combat veteran and localizer of the English version of Stalker 2
- Oleksandr Dzhusupov, serviceman of the 93rd Mechanized Brigade "Kholodnyi Yar"
- Olha Danilova, Advisor to the Ukrainian Ombudsman for Human Rights on Veteran Policy Issues
Moderator:
Kateryna Eichman, Communications Expert, Charitable Foundation "Vesta"

In partnership with CEDEM

Without volunteers, Ukraine's fight against Russia would hardly be possible. The third year of the full-scale war presents new challenges to the volunteer community. But have we already addressed the issues that volunteers, organizations engaging them, funds, and humanitarian organizations have faced since 2014? Which problems can no longer be postponed? We will discuss the key areas of CSO work to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities: weapons, drones, vehicles, tactical medicine, humanitarian work, and the evacuation of civilians. We'll also touch upon foreign volunteers and legionnaires, the most pressing issues in legislative regulation, and collectively shape our vision for supporting the volunteer movement.
Speakers:
- Yuriy Uzych, Advisor to Minister of Social Policy of Ukraine
- Liubov Shipovych, Dignitas Ukraine
- Kira Rodkina, Volunteer, Tactical Medicine Instructor
- Natalia Lipska, Head of the "Wings of Hope" Charitable Foundation
- Mateusz Wodzinski, Individual Volunteer from Poland
- Olesya Kholopik, Director of the Center for Democracy and Rule of Law
Moderator:
Oleksandr Pedan, TV Presenter, Activist

ISAR Ednannia

Playback Theater: My Feet Stand on the Ground (ART-Playback, Ukrainian School of Playback Theater, Na Varti Kyiv Playback Theater, Igor Sikorsky KPI)
Designing Shopper Bags Using Block Printing Technique (Nachynnya)
Making Brooches (EUROFUTURE)
Candle Making (Vilna Prostir)
PRAVOGames: Gaming Approach to Legal Education (Association of Public Advisors of Ukraine)
Making Traditional Ukrainian Dolls (Chernobyl Children Protection)
Creating Reflective Accessories: Light on You (Hmarochos)

Tactical Medicine (United Help Ukraine)
Petrykivka Painting (Nachynnya)
Making Brooches (EUROFUTURE)
Communication Game: Island, or Who is the Leader in the Team? (Pravosvit Foundation)
Mandala as a Healing Tool: Art Therapy for Inner Harmony (Right to Protection)
Making Traditional Ukrainian Dolls (Chernobyl Children Protection)

Music of Silence: The Path to Inner Peace (Right to Protection)
Mosaic Making (Kyiv Regional Center for Folk Art)
Petrykivka Painting (Nachynnya)
Tapestry Weaving: Cover Tables with Carpets (Reset Ukraine Foundation)
Board Psychological Game: Find the Light in Your Life (National Psychological Association)
Making Traditional Ukrainian Dolls (Chernobyl Children Protection)

Quiz: Human Rights Races (Center for Civil Liberties)