Katerina Pavlova, from CRISP Berlin, currently based in Kyiv and an expert in disinformation and propaganda, shared her insights at the International Conference “Defending Democracy: Battlefield of Truth”, organized in partnership with the Westminster Alliance for Ukraine.

Opening Remarks by Katerina Pavlova

Unity, I believe, is the main weapon we can wield against the invader. As long as we remain united, we can be strong. This is lesson number one from Ukraine: society and nation are united, and that is what allows the country to continue fighting.

Russia examines closely the divisions within Ukraine — between those who stayed and those who fled — and exploits them digitally, creating the false impression that many returning citizens are not welcome or that corruption is stagnant. While corruption still exists, Ukraine continues its efforts to combat it, even under war.

Lesson number two is the role of civil society. Civil society in Ukraine has played a crucial role in defending the country. Many activists, trained over generations in nonviolent resistance — from the Granite Revolution in 1990, to 2004 and 2013 — have now taken up arms to protect their homeland. This demonstrates the strength and resilience of a population accustomed to standing up for freedom, even in dangerous circumstances.

Finally, lesson number three is international solidarity. Ukraine relies on the support of the world, and we see varying capacities of solidarity from different countries. Germany, for instance, is expected to provide consistent support given its stability, and North Macedonia has already demonstrated significant solidarity despite its own challenges. International support is critical — from backing the Ukrainian army to donations and public engagement.

It is also vital to continue conversations with those who do not yet support Ukraine or democratic values. While difficult and sometimes frustrating, dialogue remains important.

Thank you, and greetings from Kyiv.”

The panel was held as part of the international conference “Defending Democracy: Battlefield of Truth”, organized within the framework of the project “Democratic Navigator”, with the support of the Federal Foreign Office of the Federal Republic of Germany.