On Tuesday, March 17, the Ukraine Forum took place at the Federal Palace (Bundeshaus) in Bern, bringing together policymakers, diplomats, legal experts, and civil society representatives to discuss one of the most urgent challenges of our time – Russia’s war against Ukraine and its implications for Europe and the global order.
The forum agenda reflected the multidimensional nature of the war and the response required:
Geopolitics & Security – examining how the war is reshaping Europe, the role of the EU, and the need for stronger, more coordinated leadership
International Justice & Accountability – focusing on the creation of a Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression and broader legal mechanisms to ensure responsibility and reparations
Human Dimension of War – including testimonies from former prisoners of war and frontline reporting from Kyiv
Reconstruction & Demining – addressing long-term recovery challenges, including large-scale demining efforts across Ukrainian territory
Political Priorities & Partnerships – discussing Ukraine’s future in Europe and the evolving role of international allies
A powerful opening set the tone: Ukraine continues to stand – but the question remains whether the West will match that resilience with decisive action.
From Kyiv, frontline reporting highlighted the daily reality of war: drone attacks over civilian areas, growing pressure on infrastructure, and the global spread of new forms of warfare. At the same time, Ukraine is emerging as a leader in defense innovation, particularly in drone technology and detection systems.
European speakers emphasized a fundamental shift: the European Union is transforming “from a factory of rules into a community of fate,” with security now at the core of integration. The war has accelerated a deeper unity – and a recognition that peace must be defended, not assumed.
Strong consensus emerged on accountability:
There can be no sustainable peace without justice. The establishment of a Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression – alongside compensation mechanisms – was described as a historic and necessary step to uphold international law.
International partners reaffirmed long-term commitments:
- Continued military, economic, and humanitarian support
- Strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities
- Supporting reconstruction and investment
- Advancing Ukraine’s European integration
A critical political debate also surfaced around neutrality, particularly in Switzerland. Participants stressed that neutrality must not lead to equating aggressor and victim – a position incompatible with international law and fundamental human values.
Across all discussions, one message was clear:
Ukraine is not only defending itself – it is defending Europe, democratic values, and the international rules-based order.
What we are witnessing is not just a war, but a turning point.
A test of:
- political courage
- international unity
- and the credibility of global institutions
Ukraine today is no longer seen only as a recipient of support — but as a strategic partner, a source of resilience, and a future pillar of European security.
The responsibility now lies with all of us.
