These illustrations by a young Irish artist, commissioned by Friends of the Earth Europe, are part of a project to delve into solidarity as a response to COVID-19 and climate injustice. They tell true stories of communities which have come together – resisting damaging hydro power in Bosnia, connecting people to the land and each other in Malta, giving practical help and friendship to isolated seniors in Poland, saving small-scale farmers in Spain, and bringing clean electricity to people in energy poverty in Croatia.
Animations: © Friends of the Earth Europe / Zoe Shields Illustration
How a feminist network in Spain saved small farmers during the COVID-19 crisis
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Spain_1.gif)
When COVID-19 struck Spain, markets were closed and small farmers could not make a living.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Spain_2.gif)
Several female farmers got together and formed the solidarity initiative #SOSCampesinado - SOS small farmers.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Spain_3.gif)
They proposed a network to distribute food locally, including to hospitals, care homes and schools. 700 organisations supported their plan.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Spain_4.gif)
The campaign had successes throughout Spain: municipalities re-opened markets and activated local food supply chains.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Spain_5.gif)
#SOSCampesinado remains a strong network and a symbol of solidarity.
Stories of Solidarity: How a village in Bosnia and Herzegovina resisted plans for a devastating dam
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Bosnia_1.gif)
Investors were planning to build a hydro power dam on Neretvica river– and force villagers out of their homes.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Bosnia_2.gif)
The plans threatened the local people who rely on the river for fishing and farming, and drinking water.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Bosnia_3.gif)
When works began, villagers supported by hundreds of locals, blocked the construction, not letting machines cross the bridge to the dam site.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Bosnia_4.gif)
The resistance grew stronger - and louder, thanks to a band - until the investors left, giving up on their plans for the dam.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Bosnia_5.gif)
Now, free from the threat of the dam, people are enjoying living in harmony with the river.
How crowdfunding brought light to a rural community in Croatia
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Croatia_1.gif)
In rural Croatia, many people live without full access to electricity.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Croatia_2.gif)
A group of activists launched a crowdfunding appeal to bring clean, reliable affordable energy to one community.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Croatia_3.gif)
They raised €14,000 for solar panels so the villagers could generate their own renewable power.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Croatia_4.gif)
After years of darkness, people could finally properly light their homes.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Croatia_5.gif)
Thanks to the solidarity shown, these energy independent homes are an example for the whole country.
How a nature-loving priest in Malta created a welcoming community space
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Malta_1.gif)
Malta’s climate is getting hotter and drier. Rampant construction has destroyed green spaces.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Malta_2.gif)
Mark, a Franciscan monk, wanted to protect the island’s environment, AND provide a refuge for young people who were struggling to cope.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Malta_3.gif)
Together with some some young Maltese at risk of exclusion, Mark re-wilded fields and urban spaces.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Malta_4.gif)
The group created permaculture gardens, and encouraged people to connect with nature - simultaneously healing the land and people.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Malta_5.gif)
Now young people who were excluded are creating a more peaceful and nature-conscious Malta.
How volunteers in Poland helped isolated older people during the pandemic
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Poland_1.gif)
Elderly and vulnerable people in Poland were left even more isolated and lonely during the pandemic.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Poland_2.gif)
Young people came to their aid - doing shopping, delivering medications, and walking their dogs.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Poland_3.gif)
The young volunteers saw that many of the elderly lived in damp, poorly heated and run-down houses.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Poland_4.gif)
They fundraised to be able to do renovations. They carried out repairs and modernisations.
![gif example](https://cdn.friendsoftheearth.uk/sites/default/files/cop26/animations/Poland_5.gif)
Strong bonds were formed between the generations.
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