“The Society of the Ukrainian Catholic University announces its support for civil disobedience against the President and his government, and stands with the people of the Yevromaydanom and – we believe – all the Ukrainian people. We seek the immediate resignation of the current government, the formation of the interim government and the declaration of early elections to create a new government with a fresh mandate from the people of Ukraine.” The full text of the statement is below.
Statement of the
Ukrainian Catholic University
on Civil Disobedience
Tonight in Kiev human blood was again shed. Brutal invaders sent by the government violently attacked peaceful demonstrators. This is how Ukraine commemorated Human Rights Day – by making a mockery of its purpose and attacking peaceful people.
President Yanukovych has not learned. It appears that he cannot be convinced to stop. He and his government are acting with impunity with the gross misuse of their power. They have dismissed every opportunity for dialogue that people have offered to him.
This has been a terrible night on the Yevromaydan (European Square). The heroic and peaceful demonstrators in opposition to the government would be in line to receive the Varfolomiyivska Recognition. Those who follow the orders from government – do so in contradiction to normal human conscience. Dozens of innocent people have been tortured and many have been forcibly taken way in paddy wagons. Yanukovych has lost his moral authority to serve as the President of Ukraine and to preside over the government of our country.
The Society of the Ukrainian Catholic University announces its support for civil disobedience against the President and his government, and stands with the people of the Yevromaydanom and – we believe – all the Ukrainian people. We seek the immediate resignation of the current government, the formation of the interim government and the declaration of early elections to create a new government with a fresh mandate from the people of Ukraine.
We urge all universities to accept a democratic solution for Ukraine as the only possible option for the country.
We urge that the international community support the Ukrainian people not only in words but in concrete deeds.
We bow our heads in deep respect for the defenders Yevromaydan. You stand in the dignity and honor of Ukraine. Thank you!
And together with the bishops of the Synod of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, we pray to the Almighty for peace, unity, justice and victory of truth in our nation.
Let the midst of these trials have supported the words of Jesus Christ, who featured in all our churches on Sunday: “Fear not, only believe, and she shall be saved” (Luke 8, 50). “
Adopted at a general meeting of UCU
December 11, 2013
