The Society, War & Recovery Research Centre (SWRRC) is proud to announce a
formal partnership with the Korosten–Malvern Twinning Association. This
collaboration marks a significant step in our mission to connect academic research
with meaningful, community-led recovery initiatives.
The Story Behind the Twinning
The association was born from a powerful grassroots initiative in 2024. Following
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Olha Kraievska relocated to Malvern, where
she became an active member of the local community and the Malvern Hills District
Council.
Olha proposed twinning Malvern with her hometown, Korosten. This vision led to:
Mid-2024: The formation of the Twinning Association, establishing its
constitution and formal structure.
November 2024: Unanimous approval by Malvern Town Council.
January 7, 2025: The official signing of the Twinning Oath by Mayor Marilyn
Birks (Malvern) and Mayor Volodymyr Moskalenko (Korosten).
Why Local Partnerships are Vital
At SWRRC, we believe that international solidarity is most effective when it is
rooted in local communities. While high-level policy is essential, “grassroots” ties are
the heartbeat of long-term recovery and integration.
By partnering with local organizations, we move beyond theory to engage directly
with the lived experiences of residents, schools, and businesses. This local focus
ensures that support is tangible, personal, and sustainable.
Objectives of the Collaboration
This partnership aims to foster resilience and mutual understanding through:
Educational Exchange: Developing direct links between schools in both towns.
Economic Cooperation: Facilitating collaboration between regional businesses and
tourism sectors.
Community Research: SWRRC will engage in evidence-focused projects to study
how these local ties contribute to successful integration and post-war recovery.
Civic Relationship: Strengthening the formal bond between Malvern Town Council
and Korosten City Council.
Looking Ahead
We are honored to welcome the Korosten–Malvern Twinning Association to our
network. Together, we look forward to launching initiatives that turn international
friendship into a powerful engine for community resilience.
