Annual report 2022

A glimpse of our work in 2022.

While 2022 has been significantly marked by the war in Ukraine, this has also been a year where the Caritas network has shown its true strength and character. I have been overwhelmed and deeply moved by the outpouring of solidarity shown by all our member organisations around Europe for the Ukrainian people and all those affected by this terrible war. From the bottom of my heart, I wish to thank the staff and volunteers of Caritas Ukraine and Caritas Spes Ukraine who have been a light to so many in these dark times. Rest assured of our support, solidarity
and prayers!

Msgr. Michael Landau, President of Caritas Europa

Whilst the year 2022 brought so much suffering and devastation, it was wonderful to see how the whole Caritas family mobilised to provide tireless support to respond to the needs of so many people. Caritas Europa took the lead in coordinating the humanitarian response to Ukraine, but also did what we could to promote dignified reception conditions in Europe for all those who need protection. Whether due to the war in Ukraine or to any other war or emergency, we called on European governments to ensure solidarity and to welcome our brothers and sisters in need.

Despite the challenging year, we still have reason to celebrate. The first in-person Regional Conference (General Assembly) since the beginning of the pandemic took place in Athens, where a new Executive Board was elected with their mandate beginning in 2023. Along with exchanges among members during the Conference, a youth delegation met to add their voice to the discussion on the vision for Caritas 2030. It was also a fruitful year for our relationship with the wider Caritas confederation. As a follow-up to our joint work on the EU-Africa partnership, a visit to Caritas Africa took place during the summer. Such cooperation is invaluable in our continued work to serve all those who are in need. We hope to continue building on our relationships with all regions of the global Caritas network. As we head into 2023, we look forward to an end to the war in Ukraine, and a united Europe working for all people, leaving no one behind.