The Russian attack on Ukraine is a shocking violation of the European peace order of recent decades. The German Chancellor is right when he speaks of a ‘flagrant breach of international law.’ Until the very end, the members of the German Stage Association hoped that reason would prevail and that a diplomatic solution to this deliberately provoked conflict would remain possible. These hopes for the power of peace and dialogue have been bitterly disappointed by today’s decision by the Russian president.

The war started by Russia obviously not only serves Russian power ambitions, but also clearly targets the very idea of an open and free society in Ukraine, the opportunities for art and culture to flourish freely throughout the world, and the desire of many to live together in diversity and peace.

The German Stage Association stands in solidarity with all those who continue to believe firmly in these possibilities for diverse and peaceful coexistence, in the power of art and the pacifying effect of culture, and who now have to fight for them. In Ukraine, but also in Russian civil society. There are many good examples of how cultural exchange and artistic cooperation across borders can create the basis for peace and understanding. We will do everything in our power to ensure that these efforts continue, that cooperation between peaceful people remains possible, and that the means of art and culture can also be used for this purpose. Today, however, is a dark day for Europe. We will have to fight for enlightenment.

Carsten Brosda, President of the German Stage Association
Cologne, 24 February 2022