The World Peoples Assembly conducted a section on "Strengthening International Humanitarian Cooperation" at the Second Catherine Forum

On December 20, 2025, within the framework of the Second Catherine Forum, the World Peoples Assembly conducted a thematic section dedicated to strengthening international humanitarian cooperation. The section was moderated by the Assembly's General Secretary Andrey Yurievich Belyaninov, who opened the session with the message: "Today, dialogue and trust in the global space are more important than ever—and it is precisely through humanitarian cooperation that sustainable international partnership can be built." Among the section's speakers were leaders of international organizations, public figures, politicians, and experts from Russia, France, Germany, and Austria.

Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Crimea Georgy Lvovich Muradov proposed the creation of an international digital platform for people's diplomacy as a tool to bypass information barriers created by Western countries. According to him, the World Peoples Assembly can become a unifying link for leaders of public diplomacy throughout the polycentric world. He emphasized the significance of Crimea's example as a peaceful humanitarian practice.

French public figure and Vice President of the International Movement of Russophiles Fabrice Sorlin spoke about his path to Russian citizenship and the importance of humanitarian ties for strengthening international dialogue. Andrey Yurievich Belyaninov made an emotional proposal to petition for awarding Fabrice's wife the title of "Mother Heroine," which was supported by the section participants.

Sergey Ivanovich Zhiganov, Deputy Executive Director of the Foundation for Support and Protection of Compatriots' Rights, noted the increase in appeals from compatriots for legal assistance, as well as the importance of projects for preserving historical memory. He called for intensifying the Assembly's role in providing public support, including letters in defense of compatriots.

Irina Jaiani, Chairman of the Eurasian Partnership Association (Austria), shared her experience of interaction with Russian-speaking communities in Europe, noting high risks for public figures under sanctions pressure. She emphasized the importance of creating Russian diasporas in foreign countries as a sustainable format for people's diplomacy. Irina also announced the holding of the World Public Summit Europe in Vienna in September 2026, calling to "show Austria that its neutrality must be preserved and bear the fruits of friendship."

In his video address, Waldemar Gerdt—German entrepreneur, public figure, and Chairman of the International Council of Russian Germans—noted the historical depth and contemporary relevance of Catherine the Great's decrees, emphasizing that her initiatives continue to bear fruit in the 21st century. According to Gerdt, Russian Germans living in different countries around the world today maintain a deep connection with Russia and strive to contribute to its development, emphasizing: "We are part of the great Russian history and proudly continue to serve its future."

The section concluded with an exchange of opinions. As Andrey Yurievich Belyaninov noted in conclusion, "humanitarian cooperation remains a solid foundation for international relations—it is what unites, inspires, and opens new perspectives."

The World Peoples Assembly will continue implementing public diplomacy projects, expanding the circle of partnerships and supporting initiatives that strengthen trust between peoples.