News

On the occasion of Easter, we wish you joy, hope, and peace. May this special time encourage reflection, meetings with loved ones, and drawing strength from the values that unite us.

 

Happy Easter!

 

The Management, Employees, and Staff

Krzyzowa Foundation for Mutual Understanding in Europe

 

The Foundation's values – dialogue, solidarity, Europe – these are not things that will defend themselves. They are something we must strive for every single day.

— Radosław Sikorski, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland

On March 30, we had the honor of welcoming distinguished guests. On the 35th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty on Good Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation, we hosted the foreign ministers of Poland and Germany — Deputy Prime Minister Radosław Sikorski and Minister Johann Wadephul.

For us, as hosts, this meeting was of special significance. Once again, Krzyżowa became a place where high-level politics meets the living idea of reconciliation.

The ministers recalled the foundations of our work - from the legacy of the Kreisau Circle, through the historic Mass of Reconciliation in 1989, to the present-day role of the Foundation.

“Support for institutions such as the Krzyżowa Foundation is the best investment in the future of our relations,” emphasized Minister Radosław Sikorski, declaring continued political support for our projects.

On the fourth anniversary of the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, the Board of the Krzyżowa Foundation for Mutual Understanding in Europe expresses its solidarity with the Ukrainian Nation and all those who suffer the consequences of this war. At the same time, we call for resistance against anti-Ukrainian propaganda and for unwavering support for Ukraine.

By defending itself against aggression, Ukraine also protects other nations of Europe, the entire political and cultural community of the West, and its values. It stands in defense of the key principles of the international order, including the inviolability of borders and the right of nations to self-determination.

Therefore, we express our profound gratitude to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and to all Ukrainian citizens participating in the defense effort at various levels—on the military, information, cultural, educational, medical, and food fronts.

For 3 days in November, Krzyżowa became a meeting place of generations as former Pax Christi volunteers returned to celebrate 30 years of partnership between Pax Christi and Foundation Kzyżowa. It was a great reminder of how this place has shaped young people since 1994.

The atmosphere throughout the weekend was special. People who had never met spoke to each other as if they had - connected by the common experience of a volunteer year that often changed the way they see the world.

“Through this year here in Kryżowa, the idea was implemented that maybe teaching as a job would be a good thing. And this is what I’m doing right now.” - Sabine (former volunteer)

Lifelong connections

The return of volunteers from different eras - 1994 to 2024 - showed how the program has supported personal development, intercultural dialogue, and lasting friendships. Many participants described Krzyżowa as an important stop on their life path.

In open discussions, walks around the palace, and conversations in our café “U Hrabiego”, volunteers reflected on the continuity of Kryżowa’s mission, and the values they carry with them years later.

“10 years ago, I had a wonderful time with so many new international friendships and new experiences.” - Judith (former volunteer)

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