The "Pro Dignitate Humana" award, presented by the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 2011, was given to the Polish medic "for uncompromising actions in defense of persecuted individuals' rights," said Ambassador Piotr Łukasiewicz during the ceremony in the Ukrainian capital.
Damian Duda, also the CEO of the "W międzyczasie" Foundation, has been assisting both Ukrainian soldiers wounded in combat and civilians in need of specialized medical support since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
"We also sometimes save Russian soldiers who end up in Ukrainian captivity," the awarded expert explained in an interview with journalists.
"This is an important recognition for me, which shows that the work we do is not only important for Ukrainian soldiers but also for our country, our diplomacy, and our decision-makers; it means they understand how crucial the issue of a free and independent Ukraine and its defense is," emphasized the Polish recipient of this exceptional award.
Kyiv, Ukraine, January 20, 2025. Piotr Łukasiewicz, the head of the Polish Embassy, and battlefield medic Damian Duda during the ceremony presenting the "Pro Dignitate Humana" diploma, awarded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 2011. Photo: PAP/Vladyslav Musiienko
The "Pro Dignitate Humana" award, worth 100,000 PLN (over 23,500 EUR), is presented by the Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs for exceptional actions in defending the rights of persecuted individuals, fighting repression, and standing firm in defense of human dignity and rights.
Source: PAP/IAR/X/@MSZ_RP/@DamianDuda17
(m p)