This year again, for the fourth year in a row, Ukraine marks its Independence Day while fighting for its sovereignty in a war of aggression. As the toll of human suffering rises, it is increasingly important for us to show the people of Ukraine that, alongside the Finnish people’s other means of support, we are continuing to advocate for a sustainable peace in Ukraine and will defend Ukraine’s right to autonomy in any future peace negotiations. We are living through a pivotal historical era that will shape the future of all of Europe.
UNITED FOR UKRAINE programme
The event, hosted by journalist Justas Stasevskij, will start in Helsinki’s Senate Square at 15.00.
Singer-songwriter Yona will perform, singing Ukrainian songs translated into Finnish. The Ukrainian national anthem will also be performed by Ukrainian singers. The event will conclude with a joint rendition of Sibelius’ Finlandia hymn.
The City of Helsinki Mayor Daniel Sazonov will deliver a welcome speech. Representatives of the Finnish government and the diplomatic corps are expected to be in attendance. The bells of Helsinki Cathedral will also ring for a minute in support of Ukraine’s independence.
As in previous years, we will fill Helsinki’s Senate Square with sunflowers, the Ukrainian national flower.
UNITED FOR UKRAINE is organised by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Helsinki, the Ukrainian Association in Finland, and Mothersforpeace, in cooperation with the City of Helsinki, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of Finland.
