Edinburgh, February 28, 2022

Dear Professor Mathieson,
Edinburgh University Students’ Association,
and all within the University Community,

Throughout the last couple of days, our lives have been completely preoccupied by the news coming from Ukraine. We feel that the Russian invasion that has already taken the lives of thousands of people is an atrocious act, and one about which we have no right to remain indifferent. Our University has a long history of fighting for freedom, equality, and nations' right to self-determination. Today, we are morally obliged to manifest and proclaim our opposition to unlawful aggression and cruelty more than ever. 

Ultimately, it is the people who suffer. Already, over 320,000 refugees have crossed Polish borders alone and are seeking shelter. They also need our support. We owe it strongly to the brave Ukrainian people, fiercely fighting for independence and sovereignty.

As there is no sizable Ukrainian society within Edinburgh University Students’ Association, the Polish Society feels particularly obliged to fight for the cooperation of our community, and to demonstrate our collective duty towards the people of Ukraine. Our support is required and integral for pressuring the governments to take and maintain action against the war, as well as raise awareness of the war and its effects, among the members of the University community. 

Therefore, we wish to encourage the University authorities to actively make a statement supporting Ukraine and condemning the Russian aggression. Moreover, we ask EUSA to set the Ukrainian flag in front of Teviot Row House, illuminating the building with blue and yellow colours. Additionally, we will be promptly organising charity events for humanitarian organisations and raising awareness about these unjust war crimes of Russia, requiring the University's dedicated coordination and support.

We hope that the University quickly acknowledges and recognises this message and that an official statement is released, supporting Ukraine and its people, and condemning any military aggression.

Sincerely,

Edinburgh University Polish Society,

Supported in their message by the following signatories: