Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Immigration Policy
Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a significant proposal in the area of immigration and citizenship policy by initiating draft legislation to allow dual citizenship for the Ukrainian diaspora.
This measure, announced in January 2024, is intended to grant citizenship to all ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants across the globe who have shown support, especially those who have been unable to hold citizenship previously. Zelenskyy has explicitly stated this will honor the contributions of the diaspora during the defensive war against Russian forces.
The policy marks a notable shift, as Ukraine historically did not legally permit dual citizenship, and it is framed as a way to strengthen national unity across hemispheres. However, his proposal specifically excludes citizens of the aggressor country, the Russian Federation.
Context
The discussion around Volodymyr Zelenskyy's policy on citizenship and immigration is directly related to the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War and the vast number of Ukrainians who have fled the country or reside abroad. His administration seeks to legally bind the global Ukrainian diaspora to the nation, recognizing their support during the full-scale invasion.
Prior to this, Ukraine's laws largely prohibited dual citizenship, making Zelenskyy's proposal a significant change in how the nation views its scattered population.
Actions Taken
- Legislation proposalAnnounced draft legislation to offer dual citizenship to the Ukrainian diaspora for the first time, excluding citizens of the Russian Federation.
Key Quotes
It will allow all ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants from around the world to have our citizenship.
Of course, except for citizens of the aggressor country,”
Sources5
Zelenskyy proposes dual citizenship for Ukrainian diaspora
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.