A new “Give a bicycle” (Giv en cykel) initiative in Denmark encourages and makes it easier for Danish citizens to donate used bicycles to refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine.

On 11 March, Danish Cyclists’ Federation, a member of the European Cyclists’ Federation, and Danish Transport Minister Trine Bramsen launched an initiative and a website that will facilitate the exchange of used bicycles, putting people with spare bicycles in touch with Ukrainian refugees in Denmark.

They explain that “Give a bicycle” will make it easier for Ukrainian refugees to quickly become part of local community:

“As cyclists, we know how the bicycle provides freedom to get around. I hope that many of our members and other volunteers have the desire and opportunity to help people who have had to leave everything get a good start to their stay in Denmark,” said Jens Peter Hansen, Chairman of the Danish Cyclists’ Federation.

To support this initiative, you can either donate your used bike via givencykel.dk or become a local “bicycle intermediary” who helps match donated bicycles with new owners. The Danish Cyclists’ Federation is asking its local departments and volunteers to support the initiative by becoming local bicycle intermediaries themselves.

“It’s powerful to experience the openness of people around the country when it comes to welcoming Ukrainians. Denmark is a cycling country and that’s why this initiative to help get people cycling is important. It will give many of the newly arrived freedom of movement and ensure their participation in important communities,” said Bramsen.

The website includes a section about Danish cycling culture and tips to ensure the safety of newcomers, including information on traffic rules. The website is online in Danish and a Ukrainian-language version will soon follow.

Visit the website