During the last week in the international city in Geneva, in front of the UN Palace, there was a protest and celebration on the occasion of the 33rd anniversary of the Independence of Ukraine in Geneva, where more than 500 Ukrainians participated, to whom they had joined as a sign of solidarity many Swiss and other people from the European and Balkan countries as media representatives, writes Swiss Albanian newspaper Le Canton27.ch.
By Iryna KONDRATENKO
Geneva, August 24 -Ukrainian Independence Day was celebrated not only worldwide but also here in Geneva on August 24th. Ukraine’s independence is not only a break from its Soviet past but also an affirmation of its statehood that holds profound significance for every Ukrainian. On this day, the nation of Ukraine unites to showcase its resilience in the struggle for freedom — a fight that has endured for over 300 years and continues today through a modern war for survival that has persisted for nearly a decade. This struggle extends beyond the country’s borders. According to the Swiss newspaper in Albanian Le Canton27.ch, since the activation of the protection status for Ukrainians by the Federal Council on 12 March 2022, Switzerland has welcomed almost 100,000 people from Ukraine, in addition to the usual migration flows. Last year, more than 30,000 applications were submitted. These people have become part of a global Ukrainian community supporting and upholding their homeland, even while living abroad.
On this day, the square in front of the UN, usually a hub of world diplomacy, was adorned with blue and yellow colors this Saturday. About 500 people, including representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora and residents, gathered here to celebrate this important day together. The air was filled with excitement and pride and with numerous Ukrainian flags waving around, creating an atmosphere of unity and resilience.
The Deputy Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the UN in Geneva, Oleksandr Kapustin, expressed his gratitude to everyone present for their support. He particularly thanked the Swiss government and people for helping thousands of Ukrainians who had found refuge here from the war, cites the Swiss newspaper in Albanian Le Canton27.ch.
The solemn procession from the Place des Nations to the Palais Wilson, where the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights’ headquarters is located, was cheered by car horns and smiles from the locals. Passers-by joined the column, even if only for a short time, and inquired about the national embroidered shirts worn by most of the Ukrainians present that day. The marchers carried the national flags of Ukraine, Switzerland, and the European Union, as well as posters with slogans such as « Russia is a terrorist state, » « Stop the genocide, » and « Freedom for Ukrainian prisoners, » emphasizing the vital role of international support in the fight to defend independence.
The culmination of the celebration was the Sorochynsky Fair in Versoix, which gathered over 1,000 guests. Bright embroidery, lively music, and delicious Ukrainian dishes created a unique festive atmosphere. This fair was not only an opportunity to experience the rich Ukrainian culture but also a chance to support the Ukrainian community in Switzerland.
« Independence Day reminds me of how important it is to cherish freedom and fight for it. It is a day when we remember all those who gave their lives for Ukraine, » one of the march participants said.
« This holiday unites all Ukrainians, no matter where they are. We are together, strong, and will win! » added another participant.
Today, when Ukraine is fighting for its independence again, this holiday takes on special significance. It demonstrates the resilience of the Ukrainian spirit and the willingness to fight for its freedom.
Despite all the challenges, Ukrainians look to the future with optimism and faith in victory.
« We believe that Ukraine will win! We are a strong and unbreakable people, and nothing can break us, » one of the celebrants said confidently.
This celebration in Geneva was a vivid testament to the fact that Ukrainians, wherever they are, will never forget their homeland and fight for its freedom. European countries, including Switzerland, demonstrate their solidarity and continue to provide substantial support to Ukraine.
As Nadiya Olarean, president of the Association Ukraine Reborn, noted, « Despite repressions, famines, bans, and decades of propaganda, we continue to promote Ukrainian culture and language, and we defend what we have gained every day. »
