The Cinémathèque suisse associates itself with the declaration of the FIAF (International Federation of Film Archives) on the dramatic events taking place in Ukraine and addresses its full support to its Ukrainian colleagues.
The Executive Committee of the International Federation of Film Archives (FIAF) express their deep concern for the wellbeing of their colleagues at the Oleksandr Dovzhenko National Centre in Kyiv, their families and friends, as well as for the safety of the unique collections and the premises of this important cultural institution, following the latest dramatic events in Ukraine.
Institutions such as the Oleksandr Dovzhenko National Centre (an affiliate of our Federation since 2003) can only fulfil their core missions of collecting, safeguarding, and sharing their country’s rich film heritage to the highest international standards if they are allowed to operate in a stable and peaceful environment.
A strictly politically neutral association since its creation 84 years ago, FIAF has nevertheless always condemned the disastrous effect of armed conflict on cultural institutions such as the 171 film archives of our network. Like UNESCO, with which FIAF has been in official partnership for many years, our Federation therefore fosters a culture of peace, as it recognizes that the protection of the cultural heritage, especially in a period of armed conflict, is an integral part of sustainable strategies to build a more peaceful and secure world.
On behalf of our global community of film archives, FIAF’s Executive Committee want to assure their colleagues in Kyiv of their solidarity at this very difficult time for them and their institution. They pledge to monitor the situation closely and to do everything in their power to bring support and assistance to their Ukrainian affiliate whenever needed.
Statement issued by FIAF about the situation in Ukraine
Statement from the ACE (Association of European Cinematheques)
