UNWLA hosts discussion on rethinking Ukrainian studies through a decolonial lens

The Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (UNWLA) on May 10 hosted a professional discussion that sought to shed the skin of Russian colonialist influence on Ukrainian academic studies.  

“For decades, American and Western academia was primarily focused on the study of Russia, and I would argue that the belated recognition of Ukraine as an academic discipline had a detrimental effect on the national security of the United States and our Western allies in general,” said Oksana Markarova, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the U.S., during the opening of the event.

This initiative is organized with the support of the Ukrainian Research Institute, Harvard University, Ukrainian World Congress, World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations, and the Kyiv School of Public Administration.

“The event went far beyond academic discourse — it served as yet another powerful reminder of the ripple effect our community efforts create,” the organizers said.

The expert panel examined how Russian imperial narratives have historically shaped the field of Ukrainian studies and explored ideas on how to strengthen the discipline at universities. Panelists also addressed how academic programs can be updated to reflect more accurate and independent perspectives. 

In addition to curriculum reform, the panel explored broader institutional challenges, longer-term strategies for sustainable development, and how shifting academic frameworks are influencing public understanding and policy. 

“For centuries, Ukrainian voices in history, literature, and education have been marginalized or erased,” the UNWLA wrote. “Now, as Ukraine fights an existential war, the battle to reclaim its rightful place in academia is more urgent than ever.”

The discussion video can be accessed via the following link.