UWC President calls for unity at European Ukrainian diaspora forum in Novi Sad

Paul Grod, President of the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC), addressed participants of the European Forum of the Ukrainian Diaspora Novi Sad 2025 (EFUD) and the Annual Assembly of the European Congress of Ukrainians (ECU), calling for renewed unity and purpose across Ukrainian communities worldwide.

The event, held on Nov. 28-30 in Novi Sad, Serbia, brought together representatives of Ukrainian communities from 20 countries, creating a space for dialogue, cooperation, and shared commitment at a historic moment for Ukraine and its diaspora.

“This is not just a meeting. It is a symbol of our strength, our unity, and our unwavering faith in Ukraine,” he said.

Grod outlined three key priorities for Ukrainians around the world: achieving victory for Ukraine, rebuilding the country, and creating a strong global Ukrainian community to protect Ukraine’s interests for generations to come.

“We must all be ready to return and help rebuild our homeland with our own hands and minds, creating a strong national state based on European and transatlantic principles of democracy, the rule of law, and freedom,” he said.

This year’s forum holds special significance for Ukrainian communities in the territories of the former Yugoslavia, marking 135 years since organized Ukrainian migration, organizers said.

The forum united participants to honor Ukrainian history and cultural heritage, discuss contemporary challenges and community development strategies, and strengthen cooperation in the context of war, reconstruction, and European integration.

Conferences and roundtables addressed political representation of national minorities and the diaspora, the role of Ukrainian communities in countering hostile propaganda, preserving language, education, and identity, and fostering youth leadership. A hybrid format enabled participation from Ukrainian communities across different countries.

The forum was organized by the Serbian-based Prosvita Society of Language, Literature, and Culture and the European Congress of Ukrainians. According to the organizers, the event provides a platform for sharing experiences, building partnerships, and advancing the development of Ukrainian communities across Europe.

“United, we work, we win. Glory to Ukraine!” Grod said.