On 26 October 2015, Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) President Eugene Czolij transmitted to the High Representative of the European Unionfor Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission Federica Mogherini the UWC Response to the Action Plan on Strategic Communication submitted at the European Council meeting on 25-26 June 2015.
The UWC Response welcomes the Action Plan as a positive step toward demonstrating that the international community has recognized and acknowledged the magnitude and influence of the disinformation tactics of the Russian Federation toward the post-Soviet countries, and particularly Ukraine.
Eugene Czolij also commended the creation of the East StratCom Task Force that will implement the Action Plan, adding that this initiative can be strengthened by partnering with NGOs, including the UWC, and media outlets to amplify the EU message.
In addition, the UWC President highlighted additional objectives for consideration by the European Union, including exposing the Russian agenda, promoting the Eastern Neighbourhood Countries to the European community and expanding engagement with civil society.
“The Ukrainian World Congress is willing to cooperate with the EU institutions, including the East StratCom Task Force, that are interested in effectively countering Russian disinformation and promoting fundamental freedoms in the world,” wrote UWC President Eugene Czolij. “In any such cooperation, the UWC would be offering communication channels via its extensive network of member and partner organizations around the globe, including in twenty-five EU member States, as well as its close working relationship with Ukraine’s governing authorities.”
