In these sad days when we see a war in the heart of Europe, we can do nothing but extend our SOLIDARITY to those who have to leave their homes, their friends and their loved ones doomed to an uncertain fate.
The goodwill of millions of cooperative members around the world is today with those who have to leave or defend Ukraine.
Solidarity today is open borders, open arms and hearts and also open wallets. Any help through the many channels that have been arranged in all countries will be little. Food, clothes and money will be necessary and also the reception of the millions of refugees who seek shelter. Today we want to remember the people of Ukraine, but without forgetting many other peoples who suffer the misfortune of so many wars and armed conflicts in the world.
We also want to remember the many Russians who suffer from the lack of freedom and the abuses of an authoritarian government. Those of us who have suffered state violence know the shame and impotence caused by having a government that does not represent the will of its citizens. For them also our memory.
Who defends cooperative values can never justify the use of violence because war is the opposite of them.
Because cooperation is democracy and war annihilates it.
Because cooperation is free adhesion and war is invasion.
Because cooperation is interest in the community and war is its destruction.
Until peace is restored we call for solidarity.
Yes to cooperation between people, between companies, between governments and between peoples.
NOT TO THE WAR