Statement of Estonian academic societies in relation to the crisis in Ukraine

Estonian academic societies express their deep indignation about the military invasion of the Russian Federation into sovereign Ukraine. The societies express their support to the Ukrainian academic community and wish them determination in defence of their state and democratic values.

„The great sufferings of the Ukrainian country and people are starting to bring it home to the Western welfare society how far the Russian Federation is ready to go for the sake of the ambitions of its authoritarian leaders. We are convinced that the West must show greater unity than ever before, be irreconcilable towards the aggression and jointly oppose Putinist imperialism. Currently, we can see a U-turn in the West against Kremlin’s aggressive activity. Relying on our knowledge and competence, we can contribute to the increase of social expertise in the West. Let’s do it! We are always ready to support our Ukrainian colleagues with advice and skills in our specialities and otherwise, now and in the future. Violence cannot suppress academic freedom, no matter how critical the situation is. Let’s keep and protect it,“ stands in statement.

Read the full text of the statement of 24 societies here.

The Estonian Academy of Sciences formulated its position on the situation in Ukraine on 26 February and supports the statement of the academic societies. Most of the societies that have joined the statement are associated with the Estonian Academy of Sciences.