FIVA - Solidarity for Ukraine
Published: 01/03/2022
The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs wishes to extend thoughts to all those who have been affected by the conflict, and to share our solidarity with the people of Ukraine and the Ukrainian communities living within UK and the rest of Europe. We all hope the situation will be resolved peacefully soon.
Message from FIVA:
As we are gradually seeing the pandemic disappear in the rear-view mirror, a new threat has suddenly appeared on the horizon: war. Ukraine's very existence as a democratic state is threatened by an aggression unprecedented in Europe since 1945. No one can remain indifferent to the enormous humanitarian tragedy that is now afflicting this great and proud country and its brave citizens. But please note that this is not a war between the people of the two countries. The invasion of Ukraine and the enormous disaster it brings along is the result of a completely unjustified autocratic decision.
Less than two months ago, my wife and I visited Kyiv and Lviv. Our ANF, UAC, gave us a very warm welcome. Rarely have I sensed such enthusiasm for FIVA's cause as in Ukraine. This is aptly reflected in the crucial role UAC played in putting us in touch with an organisation to represent FIVA in Russia, Nasledye. UAC perfectly understands what FIVA is about: uniting people. To stress their good cooperation UAC, Nasledye and our ANF in Moldova (Retromobile Moldova) had a fruitful videoconference, in my presence. We also met the wonderful team of the Leopolis Grand Prix, a great event to be held in early June in Lviv.
All this is now at stake. Some of our important cultural partner organisations, UNESCO first and foremost, but also the museum organisation ICOMOS and the European cultural heritage cupola Europa Nostra, have expressed their concern about the possible consequences of this horrific war for the preservation of cultural heritage in all its forms. We invite you to take note of their statements.
UNESCO’s statement on the recent developments in Ukraine | UNESCO
EUROPA NOSTRA STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH UKRAINE (sendibm3.com)
ICOMOS Statement on Ukraine - US/ICOMOS (usicomos.org)
Naturally, we are worried about the damage the war might inflict on the many beautiful historic vehicles owned by Ukrainian enthusiasts and museums. But as long as the fights for survival go on, this concern is of secondary importance.
We can only hope that this war very soon will come to an end. As best as we can we will remain in contact with the UAC team. I call on all members of FIVA to show solidarity with our friends in Ukraine, and with the Ukrainian people.
Tiddo Bresters
FIVA President
