Dear Rotaractors of the Rotaract Committee Switzerland Liechtenstein, 

Dear Rotarians,

when we overcame the worst part of the pandemic, we had no idea what a great challenge we were about to face: a war in the middle of Europe. As an internationally spread Rotaract family, connecting people from all over the world, we are deeply shocked by the attack on Ukraine.

Many Rotaractors from all over Europe and from Switzerland have mastered the challenges of the last years with courage and energy and have come out stronger. However, none of this compares to a military conflict like the one we are currently facing and which the older Rotarians still know from their own experience. Nevertheless, these examples give us confidence that solutions can be found with determination and unwavering commitment.

Our Committee Rotaract Switzerland Liechtenstein lives European values ​​of cosmopolitanism, tolerance and international understanding in its diverse international partnerships. As a society where knowledge, culture, and values are exchanged, an open exchange of ideas and non-violent discourse are our most valuable asset. This forms the backbone of the “service" and calls on us as a service organization to stand up for the principles of democracy, human rights, and peaceful coexistence in the face of such an extraordinary situation.

The Committee Rotaract Switzerland Liechtenstein, with the support of the Swiss Rotary Foundation, immediately issued grants for projects in favor of Ukraine. If you want to help, these grants are still available to you. Send to me your project and the sum required for its realization. We want our friends from Ukraine to experience solidarity and international friendship for a better future without war and misanthropy.

I wish you a healthy spring and hope for all of us peace. Next meeting is our Interdistrict Conference. More information will follow soon.

I am looking forward to your action.

Yours in hope,

Michele Serra

Country Representative and Head of International Affairs