With the implosion of the USSR nearly two decades ago, unrealistic expectations for Ukraine were chartered. It was generally believed that given its bountiful resources, Ukraine would become the first post-Soviet nation to become more like its European neighbors. Decades of the soviet way of governing permeated every aspect of daily living. The Ukrainian diaspora would soon come to realize that the long-awaited hope and the change that was expected would require several more generations.
One of the first major laws (1992) that Ukraine passed on the road to democracy, was the Law of Ukraine “On national minorities in Ukraine” which guarantees equal rights to all minorities living on its territory. Ukraine has also been consistent on the issue of religious freedom. Throughout the 19 years of independence, the United States has found Ukraine to be a loyal strategic partner. Despite its disappointing short comings, the legacy of the Orange Revolution provided an irreversible, true taste of democracy. It has made the average Ukrainian voter more informed and more engaged in the process. Ukraine’s Market Economy designation, WTO membership and the graduation from the Cold War trade restrictions of the Jackson- Vanik Amendment are some of the noted achievements of the Yushchenko administration.
It is in the area of accomplishments for the people of Ukraine that the government is most notably lacking. The continuous brain- drain of young professionals seeking a better life outside of Ukraine can be attributed to bureaucratic stronghold, lack of strategic planning and job creation. The generation that was raised and educated post- independence is demoralized by the current conditions and does not for the most part see a better near-future. This is not a healthy environment in which one plans a career and raises a family.
Civil and government corruption continues to strangle advancement on all levels of society. Judicial reform is not making serious progress. Recent reversals in several areas that had been considered law of the land- i.e., attempts at selective government regulation and control of the media, censorship and intimidation of journalists, threat of loss of accreditation of educational institutions and harassment of student protesters have set off alarming concerns. The issue of the Ukrainian language as the official language of the land is threatened by new attempts at raising the status of Russian as the second official language of Ukraine. The Holodomor –Genocide information posted on the official presidential website of the Yushchenko administration has currently been “temporarily” removed. Extention of the Russian Black Sea Fleet contract beyond the original 2017 date complicates Ukraine’s future NATO membership.
As United States citizens, we have a unique opportunity to assist Ukraine during its transition as a democratic nation. The Ukrainian diaspora in the United States is a valuable asset to Ukraine. It is through the constituents that congressmen hear about the issues of concerns of the community and Ukraine. It is through this personal interaction that most resolutions, letters and hearings on behalf of Ukraine are initiated. It is important to continue to have a good working relationship with the new representatives of Ukraine’s government. Community leaders should invite and engage Ukraine’s representatives in major community events. Round table discussions, conferences and informational meetings should be routinely scheduled to ensure an open dialogue on cultural, educational and political issues. We should share with Ukraine’s representatives our community goals and aspirations. They need to be advised that we value their recognition and support for our community endeavors in the promulgation and preservation of the Ukrainian heritage in the United States. We look forward to their support of the community-based Ukrainian schools for elementary and high school students which have educated thousands of American- born children about Ukraine and its language. An important achievement in the area of higher education is the conducting of Ukrainian Studies Programs at prestigious universities in the United States. These programs need the continuous financial support of the community and the government of Ukraine. Governments of other nations generously support language and cultural programs of their country at U. S . universities. Raising a positive image of Ukraine has been a personal request of the President Yanukovych. Interaction and support of our educational and cultural programs would be mutually beneficial in that area.
It is in the strategic interest of the United States that Ukraine continues to develop as a democratic nation. We must continue do our part to encourage Ukraine to stay on the democratic, pro-European course.
Vera M. Andryczyk
Ukrainian Federation of America
Public Advocacy/Information, chair