USIDHR Co-Hosts Rebuilding Ukraine Forum in Bucharest, Romania
Date 10.23.2023
The Palace of Parliament in Bucharest has borne witness to many historical events. This week was no exception as the Rebuilding Ukraine Forum 2023 ended. During this multi-day Forum, 450 delegates, including 40 Americans, gathered to explore three sides to the challenges faced in Ukraine: Reconstruction, Recovery, and Defense.
High-ranking representatives of Romania’s Senate, the Secretary of State, and others met alongside highly-regarded private sector leaders to delve into security and recovery for Ukraine and peace in the region.
Panels and keynote speakers, hosted by the nonprofit think tank US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights (USIDHR), concentrated on recovery efforts in Ukraine. Dr. Isabelle Vladoiu, human rights law specialist and USIDHR founder, emphasized, "Amidst the challenges born from conflict, our dedication to human rights shines brighter than ever. Together, we strive for international accountability, inclusivity in response, and the healing of both visible and unseen wounds." Speakers from civil society, the military, and politics examined the war's physical and emotional impacts. Discussions included Russia's violations of international human rights and humanitarian law, enhancing international accountability, promoting effective responses for persons with disabilities, and identifying recovery methods for those affected by the conflict.
The Rebuilding Ukraine Forum 2023 was orchestrated by a coalition of distinguished international institutions – the Romania-Ukraine Bilateral Chamber of Commerce (CCBRU), the Chamber for Sustainable Development Diplomacy with Ukraine (CDDDU), the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights (USIDHR), the Romanian Business Association of Military Technique Manufacturers (PATROMIL), and the New Strategy Center (NSC). The event is hosted under the auspices of the Embassy of Ukraine and the high Patronages of Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. Their combined commitment highlights the forum's global significance and the international community's dedication to shaping Ukraine's future.
In closing, the Rebuilding Ukraine Forum 2023 was not only a platform for the exchange of ideas and solutions but also a source of inspiration and renewed commitment. Attendees departed with 'Supporter of Rebuilding Ukraine' certificates and pins, as well as a deeper understanding, a clearer vision, and a revived sense of optimism. The heartfelt address by American US Army Veteran, Judith Ann Cushman DuBose, underscored the significance of supporting veterans with both visible and invisible wounds and the need to establish specialized hospitals in Ukraine and Romania. The collective efforts and expert-proposed solutions presented at the Rebuilding Ukraine Forum 2023 bring us one step closer to a united, healed, and thriving Ukraine.
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...our dedication to human rights shines brighter than ever. Together, we strive for international accountability, inclusivity in response, and the healing of both visible and unseen wounds.
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-Dr. Isabelle Vladoiu, Founder of USIDHR
"As we reflect on the progress made and the challenges ahead, it is clear that women's participation in diplomacy and legislative processes is not only beneficial but essential." Dr. Vladoiu stated, "Women bring unique perspectives and experiences that enrich policy-making and diplomatic efforts, contributing to more comprehensive and sustainable solutions."
Transitioning to the diplomats' personal experiences and national perspectives, H.E. Petra Schneebauer, Ambassador of Austria to the United States, delivered heartfelt remarks despite receiving the news of Austria's first woman Chancellor's passing. She celebrated the recent elections of female Presidents in Mexico and Iceland, advocating passionately for gender equality and detailing Austrian initiatives promoting women's empowerment.
Building on this theme of national progress, H.E. Kitoko Gata Ngoulou, the first woman Ambassador of Chad to the U.S., stressed the importance of dismantling barriers and creating opportunities for women's success through actionable strategies, collaboration, and inclusivity.
Following these powerful messages, H.E. Cisse Boide, the first woman Ambassador of Mauritania to the U.S., acknowledged the historical contributions of women in diplomacy. She called for continued progress, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and building a culture of inclusivity.
Continuing the dialogue on national achievements, H.E. Lilit Makunts, the first woman Ambassador of Armenia to the U.S., spoke about her role and the responsibility it carries to pave the way for future generations. She called for solidarity among women leaders and discussed Armenia's progress in gender representation in parliament.
Concluding the series of speeches, H.E. Alejandra Solano Cabalceta, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Costa Rica to the Organization of American States (OAS), provided a Latin American perspective, detailing Costa Rica's commitment to education, human rights, and gender parity.
The event also included an open discussion with the audience. Participants exchanged ideas and best practices to support and promote women's roles in these critical areas. Judith Ann Cushman DuBose, a U.S. Army Veteran and USIDHR's Regional Director in Texas, highlighted financial hurdles and the importance of mentorship programs. Izmira Aitch-Hegbe, a senior congressional staffer, provided insights into the challenges faced by women in politics. Other participants called for collaboration among various stakeholders, emphasizing that only by working together can meaningful change be achieved.
The briefing concluded with networking, fostering connections, and collaborative efforts to empower women worldwide in diplomacy and legislative processes.
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The forum acts as a dynamic platform for collaboration that directly addresses the specific requirements of Ukraine's reconstruction process.
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-Prof. Dr. Nasty-Marian Vladoiu, organizer
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Photos from the event
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