Association of Ukrainians in Ireland: Unity, culture, and support for Ukraine

Today on March 17 Ireland is celebrating its national holiday of St. Patrick’s Day. For over 15 years, the country has been home to the Association of Ukrainians in the Republic of Ireland (AURI), a key supporter of the Ukrainian World Congress. On this occasion, AURI shared its history and accomplishments.

AURI was founded in 2008 as an initiative of parents who established a Ukrainian school in Dublin. Initially, 75 children were enrolled, but over the years, the community has grown significantly. Today, nine Ukrainian schools operate across Ireland.

From the very beginning, AURI has focused on preserving Ukrainian culture and supporting the integration of Ukrainians into Irish society. The Ukrainian community has always been an active part of Ireland’s cultural life, participating in St. Patrick’s Day parades, organizing large-scale festivals, and hosting cultural events. One of the most significant pre-war events was the Price of Freedom festival, which brought together Ukrainian and Irish audiences through a screening of Cyborgs: Heroes Never Die, attended by its directors and main cast. The festival underscored the values of unity and mutual support during the 2014 war in eastern Ukraine.

After Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, AURI expanded its mission to include humanitarian and medical aid. To date, the association has successfully:

• Delivered 63 ambulances, with two more currently being prepared for shipment.
• Sent two powerful generators, a fire truck, and an armored ambulance to support emergency services in Ukraine.
• Provided humanitarian aid, medical equipment, generators, and off-road vehicles worth over €20 million.
• Dispatched more than 140 humanitarian aid trucks loaded with medical supplies and essential goods.

This support has been made possible by Irish donors, dedicated volunteers, benefactors, and international partners, as well as the tremendous generosity of the Irish people. AURI continues its humanitarian efforts through the Hurtom UA fund.

Ukrainians in Ireland deeply appreciate the unwavering support, hospitality, and solidarity shown by the Irish nation. Ireland has become a second home for over 100,000 Ukrainians, offering them shelter, assistance, and opportunities for integration. This support is invaluable and will forever remain in our hearts.

The Ukrainian community actively participates in St. Patrick’s Day parades and mass rallies marking the anniversaries of the full-scale war, constantly reminding the world of the urgent need to support Ukraine.

Despite decreasing public attention and donations, AURI’s work does not stop. We continue to collaborate with international partners, develop educational and cultural projects, organize charity concerts, and explore new ways to assist Ukraine. The Ukrainian community in Ireland remains Ukraine’s voice abroad, ensuring that the world does not forget the ongoing fight for freedom and the right to an independent future.

Learn more about AURI via this link.