The loss of the human dimension in high-level politics and the attempt to negotiate with the Russian aggressor have led to a sharp increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine. Nobel Peace Prize laureate (2022) and Head of the Center for Civil Liberties Oleksandra Matviichuk stated this at the 18th annual Kyiv Security Forum, which was held under the theme “Darkness or Dawn: Is Light Ahead?”
During her speech, Matviichuk presented a joint appeal by women Nobel Peace Prize laureates prepared specifically for the forum. In the document, the authors openly refer to the events as "an aggressive war launched by Russia" and warn against ignoring the priority of human life.
"Ironically, President Donald Trump’s year of negotiations has become the deadliest year for Ukrainian civilians. According to the UN, the number of civilians killed or wounded increased by 35% compared to the previous year. This is a direct consequence of the loss of human life as a priority in political processes," the human rights activist stated.
The appeal's second key message is that lasting peace is impossible without justice. Matviichuk emphasized that documenting war crimes and holding the perpetrators accountable is not merely a legal procedure but "work that paves the way to peace."
The Nobel laureates paid special attention to the role of Ukrainian women in resisting aggression.
"Courage has no gender. Ukrainian women are present in many areas today, including the Armed Forces, documenting crimes, leading humanitarian initiatives, and making political decisions. We urge that their voices be heard and that women be included in all decision-making processes – from reforms to peace negotiations,” Matviichuk stated.
She thanked her colleagues for their solidarity and called on the international community to return to a values-based policy where justice is the cornerstone of security.
Four women Nobel laureates participated in the 18th Kyiv Security Forum, which took place in Kyiv on April 23–24.
The full text of their appeal to the KSF is available here:
Open Ukraine is an international foundation established by Arseniy Yatsenyuk in July 2007 to strengthen Ukraine's authority in the world. The foundation organizes the Kyiv Security Forum every year. This leading international discussion platform focuses on issues of war and peace. The foundation also organizes the Youth Kyiv Security Forum to develop a new generation of Ukrainian leaders.
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