The Rectors Team of the University of Innsbruck is dismayed by the war in Ukraine, a sovereign state in Europe. We are concerned for our partners in scientic institutions and for the people in that region.
"The University of Innsbruck strongly condemns Russia's attack on Ukraine, in violation of international law! A war is at no time the answer! In regard of academic cooperation with Russia, we have therefore chosen the following policy: The contract with the government-affiliated foundation Russkij Mir, which was related to our previous Russia Center, has already been terminated with immediate effect. This center will be restructured and its focus broadened. However, we have entrusted our scientists with the freedom to evaluate and, if necessary, resolve their individual contacts with Russian colleagues themselves. We pay special attention to ending any research collaborations in connection with possible technology transfer. However, it is also important to us not to abandon Russian scientists who are critical of the situation. Especially important to us is the support of Ukrainian students and scientists in need".
In order to be able to constantly assess the situation and identify ways in which the University can support its partner institutions on site and their staff and students, the University has set up a crisis team. Staff and students who have specific insights or suggestions can send them to the crisis team via the email address ukraine@uibk.ac.at.
Emergency aid for Ukrainian employees is offered by the Works Council for Faculty and the Association of University Teachers at the University of Innsbruck.
Private individuals who want to help Ukrainians can find information on the pages of the State of Tyrol. Concrete offers of help for scientists and students are also collected on scienceforukraine.eu. Information for students can be found on the pages of the OeAD.
The first point of contact for refugees is located in the former Hotel Europa (Südtiroler Platz 2). You can find more information here: Information and FAQs
For all inquiries regarding accommodations, Soziale Dienste Tirol has set up a 24h hotline: +4369916340420.
The state of Tyrol also offers a free hotline from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m: +43800202266
The Aurora European University Alliance, of which the University of Innsbruck is a member, has a partner in Ukraine, the National V.N. Karasin University Kharkiv. With this letter (PDF) , the Alliance expresses its fullest solidarity with its partner university. 135 Nobel Laureates have signed a Call for Peace from the International Scientific Community.