NEMO Members' Meetup: The situation of Ukrainian museums after four years of war

On 12 March 2026, NEMO members gathered online for the first NEMO Members’ Meetup of the year to discuss the current situation of Ukrainian museums after four years of full‑scale war. The session brought together representatives from Ukrainian institutions as well as the OBMIN Foundation to share experiences, reflect on sector‑wide transformations, and outline recommendations for museums preparing for challenging times.  

Moderated by Hanna Belz, NEMO Project Officer, the NEMO Members’ Meetup offered space for exchange, insights, and collegial support. The session opened with a presentation by Małgorzata Ławrowska – von Thadden, Founder and CEO of OBMIN, together with Anna Nagadowska, Coordinator for international projects. They introduced the foundation’s mission as a platform dedicated to supporting and connecting Ukrainian museums through international partnerships and strategic capacity‑building. OBMIN shared insights into its key initiatives, including projects that address current institutional needs, strengthen international cooperation frameworks, and help Ukrainian museums remain resilient during prolonged crisis conditions. 

Oleksii Voronko, Digital Transformation and Grant Projects Manager at the Odesa National Fine Arts Museum, highlighted how his institution has adapted across multiple dimensions despite the ongoing war. He emphasised the museum’s significant developments over the past four years, including: advancing digitalisation efforts, expanding work with international grant opportunities, strengthening inclusion and accessibility practices, adapting exhibitions for evolving circumstances, and nurturing international cooperation. His presentation illustrated how crisis has accelerated innovation and strategic development within the museum sector.  

Dmytro Hainetdinov, Deputy Director General for Research and Collection Management at the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War (Kyiv), discussed the challenges the museum faces while safeguarding collections, conducting research, and maintaining public engagement during wartime. His contribution highlighted the importance of institutional preparedness, documentation, and transparent communication.

Following the presentations, participants engaged in an open discussion, sharing questions, institutional experiences, and reflections on the broader European museum landscape. The conversation underscored a key message: international solidarity and knowledge exchange remain crucial in helping museums navigate crises and build long‑term resilience. 

Join future Meetups 

NEMO Members' Meetups continue to offer a collegial, trusted space for professionals to learn from one another. All colleagues working at NEMO member organisations are warmly invited to join upcoming sessions and contribute their perspectives. Keep an eye out for the email invitation to the next one.