The Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS) and the S&D Group are proud to introduce the “Progressive Ukraine Programme” at FEPS’ Open Progressive University*. This year-long initiative is designed to empower, inspire and engage with the progressive Ukrainian youth.
S&D President Iratxe García and FEPS President Maria João Rodrigues will launch the programme this evening in an exchange with the participants.
The courses will focus on the far-reaching impacts of Russia’s war of aggression, the reconstruction of Ukraine and its journey towards EU membership.
The first module will feature lectures by several prominent figures, including human rights lawyer and Nobel and Sakharov Prize laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk, former Foreign Affairs Minister of Czechia Tomáš Petříček, and former Prime Minister of Poland Marek Belka, as well as several S&D MEPs, including Evin Incir, Marina Kaljurand and Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus.
S&D Group leader, Iratxe García, said:
“As Russia’s illegitimate war against Ukraine continues, it is crucial not only to provide Ukraine financial, military and humanitarian support from the EU but also to offer concrete initiatives for its people and create opportunities for meaningful exchange. This was my clear commitment with President Zelenskyy and all Ukrainians during my official visit to Kyiv.
“We, the Progressive family, are committed to helping them win this war and participating in this process of reconstruction and reforms for their integration. Through the Progressive Ukraine Programme, we aim to connect with young Ukrainians and equip them with tools, knowledge and networks to help shape a progressive European future for their country.
“Ukrainians belong to Europe and their future is European. We will stand on their side whatever it takes. Ukraine and Europe have a common future together, based on democracy, mutual values and purpose.”
FEPS President, Maria João Rodrigues, said:
“The preparation of the EU membership of Ukraine should be based on gradually involving this country in all EU cooperation networks – from security, energy and technology to economic, social, educational and cultural ones. Ukrainian university students can play a pioneering role in these exchanges, and FEPS is proud to offer them a rich set of lectures and exchanges from outstanding European personalities in the framework of the Open Progressive University.”
Note to editor
*The Open Progressive University is a first-of-a-kind e-learning platform established by FEPS in 2022, with the aim of empowering the progressive movement in Europe through broadening access to expert knowledge.
Press Contacts
S&D Group, President's Spokesperson
MACEIRAS CASTRO Andrea
andrea.maceirascastro@europarl.europa.eu
+32 2 283 33 40
Foundation for European Progressive Studies (FEPS), Head of Communication
BASCUÑANA Ainara
ainara.bascunana@feps-europe.eu
+32 2 234 69 00
