Legislation on Indigenous Peoples and National Minorities Positions Ukraine Among Europe’s Leading Nations, – Oleksandr Korniienko
Today, Ukraine marks the Day of Interethnic Harmony and Cultural Diversity for the first time, honoring the contributions of national minorities (communities) and indigenous peoples to our shared Ukrainian cultural heritage. This was announced by First Deputy Speaker Oleksandr Korniienko.
It should be recalled that at the end of last year, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a Decree «On the Day of Interethnic Harmony and Cultural Diversity.» This day was established to strengthen the unity and cohesion of the Ukrainian people, affirm Ukrainian national and civic identity, promote the free development of the cultural diversity of Ukraine’s indigenous peoples and national minorities (communities), and to honor their contribution to defending Ukraine’s state sovereignty and independence, as well as their role in the armed resistance against the aggressor state.
On the occasion of this day, First Deputy Speaker Oleksandr Korniienko took part in the All-Ukrainian Forum of National Minorities (Communities) of Ukraine. «It is impossible to imagine Ukrainian culture without each and every achievement made thanks to the representatives of all ethnic groups and communities. The enemy tried to divide us — but failed! And will never succeed,» he emphasized, expressing gratitude to all indigenous peoples and national communities for their joint struggle for Ukraine — both on the front lines and on the home front.
Oleksandr Korniienko emphasized that the adoption of laws on indigenous peoples and national minorities has positioned Ukraine among the leading countries actively implementing modern European standards in this field.
Respect for the rights of national minorities and the preservation of cultural identity are fundamental principles of Ukraine as it moves forward on the path of integration into the European Union.
At the same time, First Deputy Speaker Oleksandr Korniienko called on representatives of national communities across the country to join efforts for open dialogue on current issues, to identify priority legislative and practical steps, and to strengthen the implementation of already adopted norms.
He emphasized the importance of continued reforms in this area «to build a strong, happy, and united society.» According to him, the Verkhovna Rada will always work in close cooperation with representatives of national minorities and indigenous peoples, and every issue affecting their interests will be considered only with their participation.
«It is important to discuss not only the results we have achieved, but also our next steps and actions. We are grateful to everyone for their shared struggle and for building a strong and successful state. Unity in diversity — this is our common principle with Europe. Each of us has our own voice — but we share one heart,» — Oleksandr korniienko summed up.
Minister of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, Oleh Nemchinov, took part in the commemoration of the Day of Interethnic Harmony and Cultural Diversity.
«Today marks the first time in Ukraine’s history that this important Day is being observed, in accordance with the Decree of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This occasion signifies one fundamental truth: we are united. Our unity is especially evident within the ranks of Ukraine’s Defense and Security Forces. There, distinctions of ethnicity do not exist—there, all are warriors defending our state, distinguishable only by their camouflage patterns or by the specific branch of the security and defense sector to which they belong. Yet all of them are political Ukrainians. Today, we paid tribute to all our compatriots whose lives have been claimed by the Russian war of aggression, just as we continue to remember those who remain in Russian captivity. I also extend my gratitude to the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnic Affairs and Freedom of Conscience for organizing this event and for incorporating into this day numerous elements related to national remembrance. Thank you all for your resilience and your steadfast faith,» he said.