European Congress of Ukrainians attends Warsaw Security Forum

The European Congress of Ukrainians (ECU) participated in the yearly Warsaw Security Forum, where more than 1,500 high-level delegates from governments, international organizations, industry, think tanks, and civil society from more than 90 countries gathered.

“This year’s forum is organized in partnership with Sweden under the slogan #ThinkingEuropeAnew: rethinking Europe’s role in the rapidly changing global landscape – with a focus on strategic transatlantic partnership,” the organization reported.

Representing the ECU at the forum was board member Igor Chocholak, who heads the Association of Ukrainians in Belgium.

“The two-day program was filled with high-level speeches, discussions under Chatham House rules, dozens of bilateral meetings, as well as industry presentations and a cultural program from the partner country – all aimed at seeking answers to the most pressing current political and military issues,” the ECU stated.

Defense, energy, global outlook, and resilience comprised the four blocks of the event’s main themes.  Despite the limited number of panels dedicated to Ukraine, it was mentioned in nearly all sessions, the organization added.

“However, participants who had attended in previous years expressed regret that nothing new was presented this year. While the usual sentiment of ‘support for Ukraine as long as needed’ was reiterated, a more decisive stance was expected given the current challenging situation. Less talk, more action,” the ECU said afterward.

Still, the forum had networking opportunities and facilitated meetings with delegates from various NGOs, think tanks, and politicians. Next year, the event will be organized in partnership with France.