Dear Presidents,
Dear Judo Family,
Following various information and communications vehiculated on social media, we would like to bring some clarification to the current position of the International Judo Federation.
The International Judo Federation deplores the war taking place in Ukraine and we are in complete solidarity with the Ukrainian people.
All the governments of the world are striving and hoping for successful negotiations that would allow to stop the violence against innocent people. In order to achieve this, we do not wish to add violence on top of violence, nor to be part of it under any form. For example, the President of the French Republic, Mr. Emmanuel Macron has a healthy stance on negotiations, and he has allowed a space for that. We are following this line of approach and should the situation require it, we will know how to take tougher measures.
At present, understanding the fury that this invasion is provoking, we believe the most urgent thing to do is to help Ukrainian people and the world of judo is mobilized, numerous clubs are launching refugee welcome operations and material aid. We are engaging in this approach.
The International Judo Federation is in direct contact with the Ukrainian Judo Federation, the Ukrainian Olympic Committee and the IOC, working together for targeted help where needed the most. We are offering 200,000 USD as humanitarian assistance for the Ukrainian Judo Family.
Violence in response to violence can only be a factor of aggravation and justification of the aggressors. Today, it is the moment for solidarity and unity, as opposed to divisions and segregations which would mark our existence in a negative way, for many years to come.
Thank you all for your contribution in helping the Ukrainian people in these difficult and sad times.
Best regards,
Marius L. Vizer
President International Judo Federation