On 18 April, Ihor Dobko passed away — one of the founders of civil society in independent Ukraine, long-time head of the Lion's Society, a member of Lviv City Council across several convocations, an expert, trainer, and member of the Polaris team.
He was there at the very beginning — at a time when any independent initiative in the Ukrainian Soviet Republic immediately drew the scrutiny of the authorities. And he always stayed true to his convictions: that civic activity only has meaning when it brings people together; that partnership is stronger than institutions; that change begins with one person in one hromada.
Ihor worked hard to empower hromadas and build up their associations. Throughout his life, he built bridges — between people, organisations, and countries — and he did so with the warmth and care that everyone who knew him could feel. Around him, people did not simply collaborate — they became a team.
Ihor was about to turn 64. He left suddenly, with so much still planned and ahead of him. His bright memory — as a professional, a mentor, and a friend — will remain in our hearts and our work forever.
We extend our sincere condolences to his family, his loved ones, and all who had the honour of knowing Ihor Dobko.
Eternal memory.
