Oleksandra Matviichuk, a Ukrainian Nobel Laureate, has urged South Africa to support Ukraine in its fight for freedom, citing shared values and histories of resistance.
Matviichuk, who was in South Africa as one of the key speakers at the 14th Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation Peace Lecture, framed the conflict in Ukraine as a battle between authoritarianism and democracy, rather than a war between nations. She said Russia aims to discredit democracy, human rights, and the rule of law by demonstrating its inability to protect those affected by war.
South Africa has extensive experience fighting apartheid and human rights violations, and Ukraine is now following Nelson Mandela’s example, she wrote: “Our march to freedom is irreversible. We must not allow fear to stand in our way,” she said.
This year, the Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation marks two monumental milestones: 30 years of South Africa’s democracy and the 40th anniversary of Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s Nobel Peace Prize.
Under the theme, ”Bearing Witness”, the 14th Annual Desmond Tutu International Peace Lecture will reflect on the pivotal role of journalism and international law in safeguarding the truth, justice, and human rights. This year’s theme celebrates South Africa’s progress in democracy while underscoring Archbishop Tutu’s enduring dedication to social justice.
Our distinguished speakers include renowned journalist Maria Ressa (Nobel Peace Prize 2021) and human rights lawyer Oleksandra Matviichuk (Nobel Peace Prize 2022).
Additionally, Sudanese journalist and SkyNews correspondent Yousra Elbagir joined us, bringing a powerful Pan-African dimension to the conversation as she engages us in discussions on the critical role of bearing witness in peacebuilding and advocacy.
Complementing this dialogue, celebrated South African artists performed throughout the evening, adding a creative and contemplative dimension to our proceedings.
Source: allAfrica.com