UWC president: Multiple citizenship opens the way to rebuilding Ukraine

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) is calling on Ukrainians to repatriate and help with re-building their nation, UWC President Paul Grod told state broadcaster Suspilne on Aug. 24.

“We want to build the country our parents dreamed of and that Ukrainians dream of today. As the global Ukrainian community, we have a role to play in making this happen,” Grod said.

Meanwhile, he pointed out the importance of “remaining Ukrainian and raising future generations in this spirit.”

“Unfortunately, Russia’s war will not end quickly. Even after military operations stop, its effects will continue politically and culturally. Ukrainians abroad must protect Ukraine’s interests through information efforts, supporting civil society in their countries, and cooperating with government institutions,” Grod said.

The newly enacted multiple citizenship law that Ukraine’s parliament passed on June 18 will allow Ukrainians abroad to participate in rebuilding their homeland, return to Ukraine for public service, and take part in elections and national development.

“It was crucial for us that the law be fair. By ‘fair,’ we mean equality before the law—whether a Ukrainian is born abroad and receives a passport or is born in Ukraine, everyone should have equal rights and responsibilities,” Grod said.

Grod will provide more details on the law during a briefing organized by the UWC in Kyiv on Aug. 26. 

The event, titled “Multiple Citizenship for Ukrainians: Practical Implementation and a New UWC Legislative Initiative,” will take place at the Ukraine Media Center at 11:00 a.m. local time.