As the closing event of the Ukrainian-Dutch Literary Translation Residency, this public conversation explores how the role of writers and literature itself has changed in times of war. How do these changes affect the act of writing? Can literature remain a space for imagination and reflection when writers are increasingly expected to engage with urgent realities? Bringing together Ukrainian and Dutch voices, we will explore these questions from different literary and cultural perspectives.

While rooted in the Ukrainian experience, the discussion opens up broader questions about the responsibilities of writers in contemporary Europe and the role literature can play in shaping public understanding during times of profound change. In addition, our speakers will reflect on literary translation as an essential part of this process. Translation not only brings books to new readers; it enables stories, experiences, and ideas to cross borders, creating new spaces for dialogue and mutual understanding. With: Eugenia Kuznetsova, Tommy Wieringa, and Tobias Wals. Moderation: Simone Peek.