Russia's invasion of Ukraine on 24 February has brought about an obscure reality for our Ukrainian friends. It has caused the death and displacement of many people, resulting in an increasingly deteriorating humanitarian crisis. The whole world has witnessed the honourable resistance of the Ukrainian people against the invasion.

In these historic moments, the eTwinning community has acted swiftly to launch support efforts. The new grassroots group ‘eTwinning Supports Ukraine: community-driven solidarity activities’ aims to share and coordinate community-driven solidarity activities and emotional support for our beloved Ukrainian friends. The initiative demonstrates collective actions taken by bringing eTwinners together to highlight our shared values of freedom, democracy, and resilience and coordinate solidarity through mutual support, inspiration, communication, and collaboration.

The group expresses the commitment of the eTwinning community in supporting Ukraine and offering emotional/psycho-social support and empowerment to the Ukrainian students and teachers. There are sections which involve organised solidarity activities with messages of support, showing our shared values of communication, collaboration, interaction, respect, care, and non-violence. Additionally, as a point of reference for Ukrainian refugees with their country and their compatriots in other countries, the group has developed the keep in touch map for Ukrainian student refugees and teachers hosting them.

Furthermore, it offers articles, resources, and educational material to support teachers and students from Ukraine and encourages the sharing of good practices in welcoming and hosting Ukrainian refugees. There is also an ongoing open dialogue for proposals and actions where the network of collaborating teachers suggest initiatives and ideas to show solidarity, inspire members to participate, and enable collective actions. What’s more, among the material shared in the group, members are encouraged to share news of relief and hope for our Ukrainian friends from initiatives taking place in their countries.

The eTwinning community meets challenges with unity and solidarity. Let’s contribute to our joint action to support our friends. Even the smallest effort can make a difference if we all come together.