Statement on “Cessation of War against Ukraine" by North American Taiwanese Professors' Association

Following the violations of international law and acts of intense aggression by Russian troops against the Ukrainian people, 664 Russian scholars and journalists swiftly thereafter issued a joint statement calling for an end to the war and condemning the Kremlin's actions. These Russian intellects showcased an upholding of academic and moral conscience in the face of potential persecution by Putin's regime. The North American Taiwanese Professors' Association believes long-time Taiwanese proverbs: "virtue is never solitary; it always has neighbors" and hereby issues a statement of sincere support for our courageous Russian colleagues. Evidently, NATPA also calls on the Putin regime to immediately stop this unjust war of aggression against Ukraine.

Regardless of national boundaries, scholars are committed to the pursuit of truth in the name of the common good, while practicing compassion and justice. However, under autocratic regimes, these values cannot always be realized under the threats posed by these systems. Many Taiwanese American scholars have had firsthand experience with the Kuomintang (Chinese Nationalist Party) regime in Taiwan decades ago while participating in the democratic movement's fight for human rights. In recent years, we have witnessed the oppression of intellectuals by the Chinese Communist Party in Hong Kong and China. We thus deeply respect and honor the wisdom and courage of the Russian scholars to risk protest and opposition under tyranny.

We would like to call on conscientious scholars and colleagues all over the world to stand up and support our brave Russian colleagues in academia and speak up for justice and peace. While we may have had brief encounters in the international conferences, we do not know these Russian scholars personally; nonetheless, we are upholding their cause. The group has lit a candle of principle and justice in this dark hour of Russian history and human civilization. Even if it is frail, it bears witness that truth will triumph over evil, and the light will eventually overcome darkness.

In Solidarity,

North American Taiwanese Professors Association

You can help Ukraine by donating to humanitarian organizations

United Help Ukraine https://unitedhelpukraine.org/

Ukrainian Red Cross Society https://redcross.org.ua/en/donate/

Appel de 664 chercheurs et scientifiques russes :

« Nous exigeons l’arrêt immédiat de tous les actes de guerre dirigés contre l’Ukraine »

Appeal By 664 Russian Researchers And Scientists: 

“We Demand An Immediate End To All Acts Of War Directed Against Ukraine”