Mum's Place in Nowy Sacz, Poland, May 2024

These days, the world seems to be spinning into chaos. Politically, we are witnessing events we could never have even imagined, and it is unsettling, to say the least. The unpredictability of global affairs is truly alarming. Yet, in the midst of all this, I have been trying to keep myself grounded. Work has been my anchor—I have focused on doing it well and ensuring that I remain engaged in what I can actually influence. At the same time, I have been allowing myself some excitement because, tomorrow, I am off to Spain!

I will be visiting Leo, Marta, and her family, which I have been looking forward to for quite some time. For a week, I will be exploring Madrid and Seville, enjoying the vibrancy of these incredible cities, catching up with friends, and simply taking in the beauty of Spain. I can already imagine the bustling streets of Madrid, the charming alleyways of Seville, and the joy of simply being in a place that is so full of history and energy.

Adding to my good mood is the fact that I have now finalised my plans for a longer holiday at the end of April and into May. I will start by travelling to Nowy Sącz in Poland to spend time with Mum and family, something that always brings me great joy. This time, however, we have decided to do something special and travel together. After spending a few days in Poland, we will be heading to Malta!

Malta has always intrigued me with its stunning coastline, ancient history, and Mediterranean charm. From Valletta’s grand fortifications to the picturesque streets of Mdina, I am eager to discover what this island has to offer. Exploring its history, savouring the food, and simply enjoying the sea views with Mum will be an unforgettable experience.

After Malta, we will set off on another adventure—Uzbekistan. This is a destination that has long been on my list, and I can hardly believe that I will finally be visiting. Tashkent, the country’s capital, is known for its mix of Soviet-era architecture and Islamic heritage. But what excites me the most is visiting Samarkand. The city’s magnificent blue-tiled mosques and madrasas, particularly Registan Square, are among the most breathtaking sights in the world. Walking through its ancient streets and immersing myself in the history of the Silk Road is something I have dreamt of for years.

While in Tashkent, we also have an exciting plan—a day trip to Shymkent in Kazakhstan. This will be my first time visiting the country, and I am eager to see what it has in store. Though I know little about Shymkent, I am looking forward to experiencing a new culture, tasting Kazakh cuisine, and taking in a part of Central Asia that is still relatively unexplored by tourists.

The sheer thought of all these upcoming travels makes me incredibly happy. Not only am I visiting places that I have always wanted to see, but I get to do it with Mum, which makes it even more special. Travelling with her is always a joy, and I cherish the time we spend together on the road.

With Spain just around the corner and a grand adventure awaiting in a couple of months, I feel grateful and excited. Despite all the turmoil in the world, I am holding onto these moments of joy, exploration, and connection. After all, there is still so much beauty to experience, and I intend to embrace it fully.

Supporting One Another in the Times of Chaos

The past few weeks have been incredibly busy and, at times, overwhelming. The dramatic shifts in the US government’s stance on funding international aid, particularly humanitarian aid, are having a devastating and far-reaching impact on the most vulnerable communities worldwide. These abrupt policy changes are not only endangering lives and safety but also shaking the very foundations of international cooperation and stability.

The consequences for those who rely on humanitarian aid are profound. Millions of people who depend on life-saving assistance now find themselves at even greater risk. Whether it is food security, medical aid, shelter, or protection services, the sudden withdrawal or reduction of funding has immediate and catastrophic effects. Refugees, internally displaced people, and communities affected by conflict and natural disasters are left without essential support. The organisations working on the ground are forced to make impossible decisions—who to help and who to leave behind.

In Venezuela, the situation is particularly dire. With an already fragile humanitarian landscape, any disruption in aid poses immense challenges. Alongside my colleagues from various humanitarian organisations, we are working tirelessly to continue our programmes while also seeking ways to mitigate the impacts of these new policies. The pressure is immense, and the stakes are high. We are witnessing increased malnutrition, worsening health crises, and heightened vulnerability among displaced populations. Additionally, the lack of funding means that crucial health and education programmes for children, nutritional support, and access to clean water are all at risk of being severely cut or discontinued. The impact will not only be immediate but will also have long-term consequences, particularly for communities already suffering from economic instability and displacement.

The repercussions of these policy shifts are not confined to Venezuela. In Gaza, where an already dire humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by ongoing conflict and blockade, cuts in funding mean further shortages in essential medical supplies, food assistance, and shelter support. Hospitals, already operating under extreme duress, now face even greater challenges in treating the wounded and sick. The situation continues to deteriorate, leaving civilians with little hope for immediate relief.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, decades of conflict have led to one of the world’s most prolonged humanitarian crises. The sudden reduction in aid threatens vital health services, particularly in areas affected by ongoing violence and displacement. The disruption of food and nutrition programmes could worsen already alarming levels of malnutrition, particularly among children. Meanwhile, those seeking refuge from armed groups find themselves with even fewer resources to survive.

Sudan, which has been struggling with political instability and an ongoing humanitarian emergency, is also facing a worsening crisis due to funding cuts. The fragile peace agreements in certain regions are at risk of collapse as essential humanitarian interventions, including food distribution and medical services, become more uncertain. The potential for renewed displacement and worsening famine conditions is a very real and immediate concern.

In Afghanistan, where humanitarian needs have skyrocketed following the Taliban’s return to power, the withdrawal of international assistance places millions of people at even greater risk. The country has already suffered from economic collapse, with aid agencies acting as a critical lifeline for millions. Cuts in funding are likely to impact emergency healthcare, food distribution, and education support, with women and children bearing the brunt of the consequences.

Bangladesh, which hosts nearly one million Rohingya refugees in overcrowded camps, also faces a humanitarian setback. The Rohingya crisis remains one of the most protracted refugee situations in the world, and a reduction in funding will further strain the already limited resources available for shelter, healthcare, and food assistance. Without continued support, the likelihood of increased suffering, disease outbreaks, and malnutrition among the refugee population rises significantly.

Yet, the stress extends beyond operational concerns. Many of my colleagues—both national and international staff—are losing their jobs and livelihoods. The loss of funding means programme closures, layoffs, and reduced capacity to deliver aid. For many, especially those from countries with limited job opportunities, the consequences are devastating. It is incredibly disheartening to see how the decisions of a few policymakers can so rapidly dismantle livelihoods and throw entire communities into deeper uncertainty.

But the impact goes beyond aid programmes and job losses. The new US policies are reshaping global alliances and undermining international structures. Economic hostilities towards Canada, China, Mexico, and the EU, alongside territorial threats towards Canada, Panama, and Greenland, further destabilise global security. Threats towards Palestine, Ukraine, and European allies, with potential repercussions in Asia and Africa, add to the sense of an impending crisis. Looking at the scale of these developments, one cannot help but wonder whether we are inching closer to World War III.

In times like these, it is difficult not to feel powerless. Grand political manoeuvres are beyond our control. Yet, in all of this, we do have a role to play. Perhaps now more than ever, simple acts of kindness, solidarity, and humanity matter. Looking after one another, offering a helping hand, standing up to hatred and intolerance—these actions carry weight. As we move towards an uncertain future, perhaps there is still an opportunity to hold onto something good, to strengthen our bonds, and to persist in making the world a little better in whatever ways we can.

Through all the chaos, I have found some solace in writing. I have recently finished revamping my photo albums, adding more detailed descriptions and organising my memories in a more structured way. You can find the links to all my albums here: https://www.romanmajcher.eu/blog-2/files/7d9a8e4ebb1ee5b2dbdf379b7235313b-141.html. This process has been a step towards something bigger—hopefully, the beginning of writing a memoir or a book. The stories in these albums will serve as the foundation, helping me to be more systematic in my recollections and ensuring that important moments are not lost.

Despite the challenges, there are still things to look forward to. Soon, I will be heading to Spain for one-week break. Madrid will be my main base, where I will spend time with Leo, as well as Marta and her family. If all goes well, we are also hoping to travel to Sevilla—a city I have long wanted to visit. The anticipation of travel, even if only for a short period, is a source of joy amidst the chaos.

Difficult times lie ahead, but we must keep trying. Perhaps, in the face of adversity, there is still a chance for resilience, for new beginnings, and for hope.

Madrid, Spain, September 2020

I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve finally got my ticket for Madrid! I’ll be taking a week-long break in March, and I couldn’t be more excited. The prospect of reconnecting with old friends and having a chance to relax is incredibly uplifting.

One of the most exciting parts of this trip is the chance to meet Leo in person. It’s been a while since we last saw each other, and I’m looking forward to catching up and checking how he is settling into his life in the new country. I’ll also be meeting Marta, Javier, and their family, which is something I’m equally eager about. Although the visit is short, the excitement and anticipation are palpable.

While most of the time will be spent in Madrid, I’m hoping to get a chance to venture outside the city as well. No specific plans yet, but I’m hopeful that Leo and I will be able to come up with something soon, whether it’s a day trip to explore a nearby area or some other adventure. The possibilities are there, and I’m looking forward to seeing where the journey takes me.

All in all, this break promises to be an exciting escape, and I’m counting the days until it begins!

Western Barrios of Caracas, Venezuela, January 2025

Yesterday afternoon and evening, I had the pleasure of exploring the western barrios of Caracas, an adventure that turned out to be one of the most interesting of my time in Venezuela so far. While these areas are not as affluent as the part of the city where I live, they possess an undeniable charm, overflowing with life, colour, and an atmosphere of warmth and friendliness.

The trip was made possible thanks to the kindness of my Venezuelan friend, Giovanni, who generously offered to show me around in his car. Not only did he ensure that I remained safe throughout the journey, but he also made sure that I experienced the best of what these vibrant neighbourhoods have to offer. His knowledge and enthusiasm made the visit even more special.

The western barrios of Caracas, such as Catia, El Cementerio, and Antímano, are among the city’s most historic and culturally rich districts. They are home to a large portion of Caracas’ working-class population and are known for their bustling streets, colourful houses, and strong sense of community. Walking or driving through these areas, one cannot help but be mesmerised by the striking murals covering building walls, depicting local heroes, social movements, and artistic expressions that speak to the resilience of the people living there.

Catia, one of the most well-known barrios, was particularly fascinating. Historically, this area has played a significant role in Venezuela’s political and social movements. Today, it is a lively hub of street vendors, musicians, and artisans. The Mercado de Catia is an iconic spot where locals buy everything from fresh produce to household goods. Giovanni and I stopped to enjoy some local street food—delicious arepas and freshly squeezed juices that added to the authenticity of the experience.

El Cementerio, despite its name (which translates to 'The Cemetery'), is another barrio bursting with energy. It was originally developed around a historic cemetery but has grown into a dynamic residential and commercial area. The streets here are lined with small businesses, and the local markets are a sensory overload of smells, sounds, and colours. What struck me most was the sheer vibrancy of everyday life—children playing in the streets, shopkeepers enthusiastically calling out their latest offers, and families gathering outside their homes, engaged in animated conversations.

Antímano, further west, is one of the older districts of Caracas. Its steep, winding streets and colourful hillside houses are a sight to behold. This barrio is a true reflection of Caracas’ architectural diversity, where modern developments exist alongside traditional homes. The views from certain high points in Antímano are breathtaking, offering panoramic glimpses of the city framed by the lush green hills surrounding it.

What made this excursion truly remarkable was the warmth and hospitality of the people we encountered. Despite the economic and social difficulties many face, there is an incredible sense of camaraderie and joy in these neighbourhoods. Music fills the air, street art tells stories, and an undeniable spirit of resilience is ever-present.

For those who want to see a glimpse of this adventure, I have uploaded pictures from the excursion at this link: Venezuela in 2025 — the latest images can be found at the bottom of the album.

Exploring the western barrios of Caracas was a fantastic experience, one that gave me a deeper appreciation of the city’s diverse character. A huge thank you to Giovanni, who made this journey possible and ensured that I could immerse myself in this side of Caracas with both safety and enjoyment. I look forward to returning to these neighbourhoods and continuing to uncover more of their hidden gems.

View over Avila, Caracas, Venezuela, January 2025

Life in Caracas has been quite the experience lately. Due to work-related constraints, my ability to travel both within Venezuela and beyond its borders has been significantly limited. For someone with a constant desire to explore new places, this has been a bit frustrating. I have always had itchy feet, and staying in one place for too long does make me restless.

However, there is a silver lining. With the reduced travel, I find myself with more time to focus on personal projects that require staying put and deep concentration. One such endeavour is my early-stage book project. The process so far has been both exciting and challenging. I am currently gathering materials, reflecting on what I want to include in the book, and figuring out the best way to structure it. The book is shaping up to be a collection of life stories—memories that have defined my journey so far. If you are curious, you can get a glimpse of some of these stories in my online photo albums.

Beyond the writing itself, I am also exploring the publishing process, which is entirely new to me. I have no clear idea of how to go about it, but I am genuinely enjoying the learning curve and all the possibilities that come with it.

Although I do not have any immediate travel plans, I am considering taking a short break in March. So far, I have been thinking about Portugal and Spain as potential destinations, though nothing is set in stone. Later in the year, if everything goes well, I hope to have a longer holiday at the end of April and in May. My plans include spending quality time with my Mum and possibly travelling with her, which I am really looking forward to.

Meanwhile, February will be an incredibly busy period for me and my team at work. We will be focusing on reviewing and analysing proposals related to our humanitarian efforts in Venezuela and the broader region. It is always a time of intense workload, but it is also a rewarding and intellectually stimulating process.

On a lighter note, I am excited about the upcoming weekend because Poland will be celebrating the final of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity (Wielka Orkiestra Świątecznej Pomocy). This remarkable initiative raises funds for medical equipment to support hospitals across the country. I have been a passionate supporter of this cause for years, and tomorrow, I will be closely following the event to see how it unfolds. For those interested in learning more about this fantastic initiative, you can visit their official website here: https://en.wosp.org.pl/.

Despite being temporarily grounded in Caracas, there is still much to keep me busy and inspired. Whether it is writing, work, or following events from afar, there is always something to look forward to.

European Humanitarian Forum 2024, Brussels, Belgium, March 2024

As the new year kicks off, I find myself reflecting on my plans for the coming weeks and months. Initially, I had envisioned ending 2025 with a break. The idea of taking a step back from work and dedicating some time to personal rest sounded enticing. Unfortunately, the realities of professional obligations had other plans for me. Despite my best efforts to carve out that time, the workload proved insurmountable, and I had to abandon my holiday aspirations.

Looking ahead, I remain optimistic about having a short break in March. However, I still do not have any concrete ideas about what to do during this time. Similarly, I am planning a more substantial holiday towards the end of April or early May, but my plans remain wide open. If anyone has good suggestions for destinations or activities, I would love to hear them.

This holiday will coincide with the period just before the European Humanitarian Forum (EHF) in Brussels, a key event in the humanitarian sector's calendar. The EHF brings together stakeholders, including policymakers, practitioners, and experts, to discuss pressing challenges and opportunities in humanitarian aid. This year, the event will be co-hosted by Poland, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the European Council. For more details about the forum, visit the official website: European Humanitarian Forum.

Balancing work and personal life is always a challenge, but the prospect of meaningful engagements like the EHF and the possibility of future holidays keeps me motivated. Here’s to navigating the weeks ahead with purpose and, hopefully, a little bit of rest along the way.

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Happy New Year

As we step into 2025, I want to extend my heartfelt wishes to each of you for a year filled with hope, health, and happiness. This new year offers us a blank canvas—a chance to dream boldly, act decisively, and embrace the opportunities ahead.

2025 is a time to renew our commitments to making a positive difference, to deepen connections with those around us, and to explore new horizons. Whether it’s through humanitarian efforts, personal achievements, or simple acts of kindness, let’s make this year one of collective growth and shared success.

This space will continue to be a place for reflections, stories, and ideas that highlight the power of resilience and unity. I look forward to sharing this journey with you and hearing your own stories of courage and hope throughout the year.

Here’s to a 2025 full of new adventures and lasting memories. Together, let’s make it extraordinary!

Spoilt for travel: Some of my trips of 2024

As 2024 comes to an end, I take a moment to reflect on a year that has been both demanding and rewarding. It has been a year filled with professional challenges, personal milestones, and journeys that reminded me of the beauty and complexity of the world.

Humanitarian Work in Venezuela

This year, my humanitarian work took me to Venezuela, a country navigating profound socio-economic hardships. The experience tested my resilience and reaffirmed my commitment to humanitarian principles.

Every day brought new challenges: managing the allocation of resources, liaising with local and international partners, and witnessing the courage of Venezuelan communities who continue to inspire with their strength and dignity. I feel privileged to have contributed to global humanitarian efforts, which represent the collective commitment of the international community to alleviate suffering and uphold human dignity.

While the financial resources allocated to humanitarian action are significant, they do not reflect any inherent superiority—or at least, I hope this is not the case. Rather, they stand as a testament to the shared humanism that unites us—a recognition of our collective responsibility to help those in need. Many of us who contribute to these efforts have simply been fortunate to grow up in circumstances that enable us to provide support. Recognising this privilege is essential to ensuring that our work remains grounded in humility, respect, and a deep sense of global solidarity.

Personal Milestones: Embracing Dual Heritage

A personal highlight this year was obtaining Portuguese citizenship. Portugal has been a second home to me, offering a sense of belonging and enriching my life in countless ways. At the same time, I remain deeply grateful for what Poland—the country of my birth—has given me. Both nations have profoundly shaped who I am today, and I embrace them equally, recognising the unique cultures and values each offers.

Receiving Portuguese citizenship is not just a legal milestone but also a celebration of the experiences that have connected me to Portugal. One of the places that continues to captivate me is Funchal, with its vibrant atmosphere and stunning landscapes. Each visit there reinforces my appreciation for this beautiful country.

Unforgettable Travels

2024 also brought opportunities to explore the world and strengthen connections with loved ones. Early in the year, I travelled with my mother to Japan and Poland. In Japan, we explored the dynamic city of Kobe, where the blend of modernity and tradition was fascinating. Although I passed through Kyoto briefly by train, the sights from the window were enough to leave an impression of its historical grandeur.

Returning to Poland, particularly Nowy Sącz, was deeply moving. Walking through the streets of my hometown and revisiting places that shaped my early years was a poignant reminder of my roots and the journey that has brought me here.

Later in the year, I found myself in the Caribbean, taking a much-needed holiday. Barbados, with its stunning beaches and the UNESCO-listed Bridgetown, offered the perfect mix of relaxation and cultural exploration. A brief stop in Trinidad and Tobago also left a lasting impression, with its vibrant culture and warm hospitality.

Challenges and Opportunities

Of course, 2024 had its share of challenges. Humanitarian work, by its nature, often means grappling with difficult realities. The scale of crises and the complexity of addressing them can be overwhelming. Sometimes, our work is questioned—occasionally for good reasons—forcing us to reflect and adapt.

In these moments, the support of friends and colleagues has been invaluable. I am especially grateful to Tahir and his wife, Amna, whose friendship and wise counsel have been a source of strength this year. Their ability to listen and share perspective has reminded me of the importance of solidarity and connection.

I also found inspiration in the resilience of my friend Leonel, who recently migrated from Venezuela to Spain. Watching him navigate the challenges of starting a new life, finding his footing in a foreign country, and slowly building his confidence has been a powerful reminder of the human capacity for adaptation and hope. Supporting him through this transition has been both a privilege and a learning experience for me.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As I look to the future, my commitment to humanitarian work remains steadfast. Despite the challenges, I believe in the power of collective action to make a difference. The road is not always easy, but the resilience of the communities we serve, and the dedication of those working in this field, continue to inspire me to persevere.

On a personal level, I look forward to new opportunities for growth, travel, and connection. Whether through work, family, or moments of quiet reflection, I hope to embrace 2025 with the same openness and determination that carried me through this year.

Gratitude and New Year Wishes

To all who have shared this year with me—colleagues, friends, family, and the communities we work with—thank you. Your support and kindness have been invaluable.

Let us welcome 2025 with hope, courage, and a shared commitment to building a better world.

Wishing you a joyful New Year filled with peace, love, and meaningful moments!

Warm regards,
Roman

(As always, you can revisit some of these moments through the photos and stories shared here on the blog. Thank you for being part of this journey.)