Philosophical Gathering in Rivne
On September 19, 2026, Rivne hosted a significant philosophical event focused on the resilience of Ukraine. The discussion was moderated by political scientist Yevhen Hlibovytsky, featuring philosophers and professors from the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. Participants explored key themes such as resilience, unity, dignity, and freedom within the context of the ongoing conflict with Russia, while also examining historical connections linked to Orthodox brotherhoods and the patronage of Halshka Hulevychivna.
Defining Resilience
During the event, two interpretations of resilience were introduced: the capacity to endure over the long term and the ability to exercise self-control. The philosophers warned that Ukraine’s defeat would signal "the end of Ukraine" and the "death of most of us." Yet, they emphasized that Ukrainians face the future unafraid, with Hlibovytsky stating,
“The only thing we do not fear is the Future.”The concept of unity was also discussed, highlighting the importance of collective action, tolerance, and acceptance of all who stand for Ukraine.
The conversation addressed the controversial issue of the Russian language and Russian-speaking Ukrainians, a divisive topic among thinkers. Kyiv philosophers asserted that
“where there is Russian language, there is Russia.”However, they stressed the necessity of uniting across religious lines, welcoming Russian-speaking and Ukrainian-speaking citizens, members of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate), the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, other faiths, Gnostics, and atheists alike. They acknowledged Ukraine’s limits of endurance and warned that resources are not infinite, urging an end to the "chain of blame and mutual accusations."
Regarding Halshka Hulevychivna, it was noted she was a noble patron from the Ostroh princely family in Volhynia who founded the Kyiv-Mohyla and Ostroh Academies. She supported Orthodox brotherhoods resisting Catholic influence. Participants emphasized that the foundation of resilience lies in the ideals of dignity and freedom—qualities that distinctly separate Ukraine from Russia.
Facts about Russian society presented at the event included:
- 60% of Russian citizens favor ending the war and starting negotiations;
- 30% were initially opposed to the war;
- Within Russia, 30% of the population—approximately 45 million people—have over 10 million individuals of Ukrainian descent.
The program combined a plenary discussion, audience Q&A, and a jazz concert segment, attracting attendees from Kyiv despite the city’s ongoing exposure to Russian airstrikes.
This philosophical forum offered a vital platform to address pressing social and political issues affecting Ukrainian society in wartime. Beyond exploring philosophical ideas on resilience and unity, the participants underscored the urgent need to unite all Ukrainians, regardless of language or religious affiliation, in facing common challenges. The historical insights on figures like Halshka Hulevychivna enriched the dialogue by connecting Ukraine’s cultural heritage with its present-day struggles.