UWC President comments on new Ukrainian ministry, says strategy for engaging Ukrainians abroad is essential

The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) welcomes the creation of the Ministry of National Unity and emphasizes the importance of developing a strategic framework for engaging with Ukrainians abroad. 

UWC President Paul Grod highlighted this in an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.

“Right now, the proposed mandate seems too broad – it covers everything from strategic communications abroad and community development to Ukrainian education overseas and the return of Ukrainians to Ukraine,” Grod said.  

He said this approach poses two key risks: a lack of clear focus and overlapping responsibilities with other ministries.  

It’s essential to follow the principle: ‘Nothing about the global Ukrainian community without the global Ukrainian community,’ Grod says.

In a separate interview with Suspilne, he also pointed out that one of the new ministry’s greatest challenges will be preventing the assimilation of Ukrainians living abroad.  

“Integration – yes. Assimilation – no,” he said.  

The UWC is already working with Ukraine’s Ministry of Education and educational institutions in host countries to create “the best possible conditions for school-age children,” with a particular focus on ensuring access to Ukrainian-language education.