Even before the ongoing conflict on Eastern Ukraine has started in 2014, the general perception of Donbas region was not so pleasant in the eyes of an average Ukrainian. “The region of coals and miners”, “Land of Slav bullies”, “poverty” and “pro-Russian electorate” were the first and, usually, the last associations with people who live in this area. The pro-Russian unrest in Ukraine that happened in 2014 has only aggravated the situation. Even until today embassies and international organisations restrict, highly not recommend or forbid travels even to the safe areas that are being under control of the Ukrainian government for years.
To change such negative perception of Donbas and turn the attention of public to the natural treasures and cultural heritage of this region, a collaboration with local NGO “Shum.Rave” has been initiated.
As a result, two videos with Ukrainian residents of rave scene have been filmed. The first one was shot in Donetsk Oblast featuring local DJ that played a music session near chalk rocks.
The second video was shot on the territory of Solve Hospital in Lysychansk, Luhansk Oblast. The idea was to attract the attention of locals and authorities to preserve the historic building, which requires maintenance works. Famous Ukrainian DJ, Vlad Fisun has been invited to play a session for this recording.
Despite the fact that shootings took place during COVID-19 pandemic, all required security measures have been taken. A minimum number of people (even from organizers) were present at the stage, although locals had a chance to see the performance from their cars or apartments.
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The activity was implemented in the framework of the United Nations Recovery and Peacebuilding Programme (UN RPP). UN RPP is implemented by four United Nations agencies: the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the UN Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).
