As we look in anguish and with deep concern at the conflict in Ukraine, we remind ourselves that Members of the Chartered Institute of Linguists speak over 50 different languages and come from over 50 different countries: many of which will have known violence, displacement of people and families and the loss of lives and livelihoods.

Our Royal Charter commits us to contributing towards international goodwill by encouraging the effective study and practice of languages. Over the long term, ties of languages and culture can and do transcend conflict and war. People can do terrible things to each other, but also have amazing capacity for forgiveness and to come back together.

The current humanitarian situation is heart-breaking; we work and hope for a time when the spirit of our motto Universal Understanding guides the future for more people and countries around the world.