Russia’s war on Ukraine is having a devastating impact as civilians have been suffering and dying, including women and children, and more than 14 million Ukrainians have already fled their homes.
Ukrainian animals and pets are also suffering from Russian aggression and if people cannot take care of their safety, then animals are completely defenceless.
Most Ukrainians are showing their humanity and courage – they do not leave their animals in the bomb shelters or evacuations, carrying their pets such as dogs, cats, parrots and turtles with them.
The EU recognises animals as sentient beings and provides humanitarian and emergency support to protect human and animal lives. In order to raise awareness of Ukrainian animals affected by the war and to draw attention to the outstanding demonstration of humanity and compassion of Ukrainians towards animals, the European Union in partnership with NGO UAnimals implemented a digital communication campaign during April-May 2022.
As part of the campaign a series of short videos based on true stories have been produced, covering the different aspects of the issue with their further dissemination on social media. The photos and video footage are courtesy of UAnimals NGO.
The content of the videos was aimed at:
- enhancing Ukrainian and European citizens’ understanding and awareness of Ukrainian animals that are massively affected by Russian aggression and are in desperate need of help;
- demonstrating that Ukrainians are brave and humane citizens who do not abandon their much-loved pets in an attempt to help as much as possible;
- conveying the importance of Ukrainian civil society organisations’ (CSOs) involvement in taking humanitarian action and promoting the EU assistance;
- inspiring community leaders and citizens in Ukraine and the EU to support Ukrainian animals and volunteers.
