‘The Power of a Global Ukrainian Community’: lessons in global advocacy

Ukrainian diplomat Ihor Ostash is the featured guest of the second interview in the “The Power of a Global Ukrainian Community” special series that is produced by the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC). 

The series highlights Ukrainians abroad who, through their own experience, show how the coordinated efforts of diaspora communities can shape the course of history.

In a conversation with Ihor Ostash, we explore the scope and impact of advocacy on a global scale. In Lebanon, he helped build a Ukrainian community from the ground up by transforming it into a powerful instrument of soft power. 

Together, the Ukrainian Embassy and the community installed monuments to Taras Shevchenko, translated Ukrainian literature into Arabic, and shared Ukraine’s story with more than 500 million readers across the Arab world.

When Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022, that same community staged rallies that drew not only Ukrainians, but local citizens — influencing public opinion and political leaders alike. 

“Education, culture, and community advocacy are strong messages to the whole world,” Ostash says. “They show that we are united.”

On this Christmas Eve, the diplomat offers a heartfelt reminder: Ukrainian communities around the world are doing incredible things in extremely difficult circumstances and they need your support.

Your contribution to UWC helps makes a global impact. It amplifies Ukraine’s voice, strengthens advocacy in the United States and worldwide, and supports the global Ukrainian family at a moment when it truly matters.

This Christmas, we invite you to stand with Ukraine and with the community that helps make history move in the right direction.

Thank you for being part of this shared effort.

Support the UWC here.