Day of Peace Event in Bratislava Displays Ukrainian Culture

Bratislava, Slovakia – To commemorate the UN International Day of Peace, UPF-Slovakia decided to focus on Ukraine. A program entitled, "The Road to Peace – With Love to Ukraine" was held September 19, 2025, at the Peace Embassy in Bratislava. The varied program was enthusiastically developed by creative ladies from Ukraine who live in or near Bratislava.

UPF-Slovakia President Mr. Miloš Klas welcomed the audience of about 100, explaining that UPF often organizes events in accordance with UN International Days such as the International Day of Peace. This year is special in that the United Nations is marking its 80th anniversary, and the Universal Peace Federation is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

His remarks were followed by Greek Catholic priest Father Igor Marusyn, who reminded the audience that Jesus had come into the world to make peace, setting an example for all to follow. 

Two young people moderated the cultural program, in Slovak and Ukrainian. Around 30 dancers, singers, poets, and musicians gave outstanding performances, completely winning the hearts of the guests. Among them was Mr. Roman Yaremko, the first secretary of the Ukrainian Embassy.

The program began with a performance by the dance club Silver Grace; then 13-year-old  Kateryna Kravchenko sang several songs with much emotion; two very young ballet dancers demonstrated their skills; Ms. Oľha Smorkis masterfully played melodies on the string instrument bandura; Mr. Ruslan Pashynskyi played the folk woodwind instrument Sopilka; several poems were recited and songs sung with piano accompaniment; typical plants and foods were presented in words and pictures. In the hall, paintings by the artists Ms. Tetiana Didenko and Ms. Julia Tomesko were on exhibit.

The publisher Mr. Juraj Lajda donated numerous Ukrainian children´s books. His company, Ideal, cooperates with the project Creative Europe by distributing free books to schools with refugee children.

The program concluded with a popular Ukrainian song; many guests joined in singing.

Afterwards many Ukrainian guests, as well as the Ukrainian Embassy staff, expressed deep gratitude that UPF-Slovakia had made the Peace Embassy available for this demonstration of the rich Ukrainian culture.

By Barbara Grabner, UPF-Slovakia September 19, 2025