UWC applauds the Ukrainian parliament’s commitment to revising the bill on multiple citizenship

January 8, 2025 – Kyiv, Ukraine. The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) has praised the recent amendments to Ukraine’s draft law on multiple citizenship.

These updates to the legislation, initiated by the UWC and developed in collaboration with Members of Parliament Andriy Motovylovets (Servant of the People), Volodymyr Viatrovych (European Solidarity), and Yaroslav Yurchyshyn (Holos), have garnered the support of 29 lawmakers from four different factions.

The proposed package includes three key provisions that the UWC believes are essential to ensuring the bill reflects the interests of all Ukrainian citizens:

1. Equality Before the Law: It is imperative to avoid class-based distinctions among citizens, ensuring equal rights and responsibilities for all.
2. List of Recognized Countries: A curated list of countries should be established, excluding those deemed security risks, such as Russia, Belarus, North Korea, and Iran.
3. Citizenship Requirements: Applicants must declare their allegiance to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, demonstrate knowledge of the country’s history and Constitution, and be proficient in the Ukrainian language.

“The draft law on multiple citizenship, initiated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and developed with the participation of Ukrainian members of parliament from various factions, experts, Ukrainian civil society, and the global Ukrainian community, is a remarkable example of synergy and unified efforts. This initiative is pivotal in securing a promising future for Ukraine and uniting Ukrainians worldwide around their homeland,” said UWC President Paul Grod.

The UWC expresses gratitude to Ukrainian lawmakers for their open, and responsible approach to this legislation and their willingness to work with civil society.

The organization remains committed to working with all stakeholders to develop a law that meets global standards while protecting Ukraine’s national interests.

About the Ukrainian World Congress

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) is an international non-profit organization representing over 25 million Ukrainians in more than 80 countries. Founded in 1967, it promotes the defense of Ukraine’s nation state, its people, and territorial integrity, while fostering Ukrainian national identity globally. Recognized by the UN Economic and Social Council, the UWC advocates for Ukraine’s Euro-integration, NATO membership, recognition of the Holodomor as genocide, and protection of human and minority rights.