Ukrainians abroad are strengthening ties between Ukraine and Europe and advancing the country’s European integration through education, professional work, and civic engagement.
This was stated by Ylva Johansson, Special Envoy for Ukrainians in the EU, in a video address to participants of the Global Ukrainian Summit in Bern, Switzerland.
“The Ukrainian diaspora plays a historic role. You are the human bridges between Ukraine and Europe. Every Ukrainian integrated into European school, university, workplace, or local community strengthens these ties,” Johansson said.
According to the envoy, millions of Ukrainians have been forced to seek safety abroad since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion. More than 4.5 million people have received temporary protection in EU countries alone.
“Behind these numbers are people who were forced to leave their homes, careers, schools, and communities behind almost overnight. But Ukrainians abroad are not defined by displacement. They are professionals, students, entrepreneurs, volunteers, parents, and community leaders,” she said.
Johansson stressed that Ukrainians abroad are not passive recipients of assistance but active contributors to Europe’s development and remain important partners in Ukraine’s future.
“Ukraine’s future is European. Ukraine’s path towards the European Union is not only about institutions and reforms. It’s also about people. It is about building connections, trust, and shared experience between Ukraine and Europe,” she added.
According to her, every new skill, professional connection, or cultural initiative developed abroad contributes not only to the personal success of Ukrainians but also to Ukraine’s future recovery and integration into Europe.
Johansson also encouraged Ukrainians abroad to take advantage of opportunities to learn languages, continue their education, and pursue professional development.
“The experience and expertise gained today will help shape Ukraine tomorrow,” she said.
At the same time, the envoy underscored the importance of maintaining ties with the homeland and preserving the Ukrainian language, culture, and identity abroad. She noted that Ukrainian organizations play an indispensable role in this effort by supporting communities, assisting families, and helping sustain international support for Ukraine.
Johansson added that the Ukrainian community has already demonstrated “extraordinary resilience, leadership, and solidarity,” and that the shared task now is to turn that energy into a long-term force for both Ukraine and Europe.
The Global Ukrainian Summit in Bern brought together leaders from more than 30 countries. Participants included government officials from Ukraine and Switzerland, representatives of the European Union, and leaders of civil society organizations. The official opening took place on June 5.
