The topic of defending democracy is very pressing and relevant for Ukraine at a time of full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine.

Considering the title of the conference – Defending Democracy: Horizons of Freedom, – the protection of democracy is also relevant for others who, while not suffering from daily shelling, occupation of part of their territory, or constant threats to their lives, suffer from or face a number of challenges related to violations of the principles and components of democracy in peaceful times.

Obviously, this is quite understandable, as the process of forming or developing relationships in society within the paradigm of ‘individual – society – state’ continues both in states that are not affected by war as well as in states that are moving towards European integration amid war with the Russian aggressor. Such a state is Ukraine.

Millions of Ukrainians are deprived of their right to a decent standard of living, as Russia systematically targets Ukraine’s critical infrastructure—leaving hundreds of thousands without power, heat, or the basic necessities of life, especially during the winter months.

Due to the special legal regime introduced in Ukraine – martial law – there are certain restrictions stipulated by the Law of Ukraine “On Legal Regime of Martial Law.”

However, even during the Russian armed aggression, Ukraine continues to demonstrate resilience and commitment to democratic values – the Parliament, the President, the Government, the judiciary, anti-corruption bodies, local self-government, active civil society and the media are all functioning.

Ukrainians prove with their lives and resilience that democracy commands a high price. Defending democracy requires consolidation, both internally and externally.

The more resolutely democratic states are united in their commitment to fully comply with the sanctions imposed on the Russian Federation, the less resources the aggressor state will have to fuel its war machine. The sooner the UN Security Council adopts the long-overdue resolution on an unconditional ceasefire, – the full ceasefire here and now that would bring an end to the protracted war, – the faster Ukraine will fully restore its rights and freedoms, and the faster Ukraine will notify the UN Secretary-General of the termination of the relevant derogations from its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.  This is the horizon for Ukrainians.