The newly adopted law on multiple citizenship marks a historic step toward equalizing rights of Ukrainians living in Ukraine and Ukrainians living abroad.
That’s the view of Jaroszlava Hartyányi, President of the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations and Second Vice President of the UWC, in an interview with state broadcaster Suspilne.
“We are extremely pleased that the law has finally been passed. While it may still require some improvements, its most important achievement is ensuring equal rights for Ukrainians abroad alongside those living in Ukraine,” Hartyányi said.
She believes the law is especially necessary to help Ukraine maintain a connection with the millions of Ukrainians who were forced to leave the country following Russia’s full-scale invasion.
“The goal is to preserve Ukraine’s ties with these six million — or even more — of our compatriots. It’s crucial that they aren’t forced to choose between Ukrainian citizenship and another citizenship, particularly if the war continues,” the UWC Second VP said.
Additionally, the law resolves an issue faced by Ukrainians who already hold dual citizenship, such as Ukrainian and Hungarian. Until now, many had to conceal their second citizenship out of fear of losing their Ukrainian one.
This will no longer be required, Hartyányi said.
Ukraine’s legislature, the Verkhovna Rada, on June 18 passed Law No. 11469, officially introducing the institution of multiple citizenship in Ukraine. The Ukrainian World Congress proudly welcomes this historic decision by the parliament.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has yet to sign the bill, a step that remains pending and widely expected to be a mere formality.
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