“The impact of armed conflict on children is everyone’s responsibility. And it must be everyone’s concern.” Graca Machel-Mandela
Polina’s narrative, born from the harrowing experiences of the Ukrainian invasion, unveils the profound impact of war on children. Her shattered innocence, the haunting fear in her dreams, and the abrupt end to her carefree childhood are stark illustrations of war’s devastating consequences. Yet, Polina’s story transcends personal trauma, echoing the generational trauma inflicted by conflict. Her grandmother’s wartime experiences, a chilling reminder of history repeating itself, underscore the enduring legacy of war.
Her dream of becoming a veterinarian, a beacon of hope amidst despair, reveals a child’s innate compassion and resilience. Her desire to heal animals, intensified by witnessing the suffering and abandonment of pets during the conflict, is a poignant metaphor for the healing needed on a global scale. Polina’s words, “The bones need to be broken again and set right,” encapsulate the profound truth that true healing requires acknowledging and addressing the root causes of pain.
Told through the empathetic lens of Polish/Australian director Agnes Burrell, whose family history goes back to the First and Second World Wars in Poland. “We Are Waiting” exposes the complex nature of war, culture and generational damage. The documentary is shedding light on the war atrocities in Ukraine while also looking inside the profound human capacity to endure, adapt, and ultimately find hope.
This story transcends and speaks to the lives of 468+ million children who are currently affected by war and armed conflicts globally.
It’s a testament to the unyielding spirit that emerges even in the darkest of times, leaving audiences with a renewed sense of concern, empathy and understanding for those who are facing the unimaginable. The impact of armed conflict on children is everyone’s responsibility. We can start by acknowledging it and understanding their needs. They Are Waiting.
