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6 OUR LIFE • May-June 2025 The UNWLA’s Decolonization Month A Powerful Instrument of Ukrainian Cultural Diplomacy Anna Petelina , UNWLA National Education Chair Cultural diplomacy is one of the most effective ways to shape global perceptions, fostering understanding and influencing international attitudes. It isn’t limited to state-led initia - tives — it’s driven by artists, writers, scholars, and advocates who bring Ukraine’s story to the world. Whether through literature, film, academic discourse, or activism, their work challenges outdated narratives and secures Ukraine’s rightful place in global conversations. As the writer Milan Kundera noted, “The sur - vival of people without strong cultural values is far from guaranteed.” This rings especially true for Ukraine, which has long faced the era - sure of its history, language, and artistic leg - acy under russian imperialism. The UNWLA’s Decolonization Month in May is a response to this challenge — a platform to amplify Ukrainian voices in academia, cultural institutions, and public discourse, ensuring that Ukraine is recognized as an independ - ent and essential contributor to global culture. Cultural Diplomacy and Ukraine’s Role in Global Conversations Culture serves as a bridge between societies, shap - ing not just public perception but also policymaking. Successful cultural diplomacy isn’t about imposing one’s narrative but about fostering genuine dialogue. For Ukraine, integrating its cultural heritage into in - ternational school curricula, media, and public dis - course is crucial. However, Ukraine operates in a competitive cultur - al landscape, and russian influence continues through literature, cinema, and theater, often funded by pri - vate donors or government-backed projects. The West frequently fails to distinguish between russian and Ukrainian contributions, allowing russian nar - ratives to overshadow Ukraine’s artistic and literary achievements. This dominance isn’t accidental — it is the result of a systematic effort to erase Ukrainian identity, particularly through the suppression of the Ukrainian language. Milan Kundera once stated, “It is crucial for a so - ciety to become fully aware of the essential role played by its culture and literature.” In Ukraine’s case, reclaiming its cultural space means pushing back against these historical distortions, ensuring Ukrainian Studies are properly represented in global academia, and creating opportunities for Ukrainian artists and scholars to be heard. Strengthening Ukrainian Studies and Overcoming Barriers One of the most effective ways to challenge misin - formation and the legacy of russification is through education. High-quality materials tailored for West - ern audiences, along with collaborations with inter - national universities and cultural institutions, can help integrate Ukraine’s history and literature into mainstream academic discourse. The UNWLA’s Decolonization Toolkit is available on its website (Initiatives > Advocate).
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