Ukrainian Diaspora in Poland and Francе: Role in Shaping the Image of Ukraine

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the role of the Ukrainian diaspora in Poland and France in shaping a positive international image of Ukraine. The author analyzes the historical background of the formation of Ukrainian communities in these countries, identifies the peculiarities of their development and transformation in response to political, social and geopolitical challenges. Particular attention is paid to the comparative analysis of the conditions of stay of representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora in Poland and France, their number, the level of integration into the host societies, as well as the specifics of the organizational structure and priorities of their activities. It is proved that, despite differences in size, social composition and level of organizational consolidation, both the Polish and French Ukrainian diasporas are united by a common goal - preservation of the Ukrainian national identity, popularization of culture, language and art, and, starting from 2022, active humanitarian, human rights and information activities in support of Ukraine. A significant number of initiatives have been implemented, including cultural events, educational programs, solidarity rallies, humanitarian missions, and information campaigns aimed at countering Russian disinformation and spreading truthful information about the war in Ukraine. The analytical and publishing activities of a number of diaspora organizations, which contribute to the formation of an objective international discourse on Ukraine, are considered particularly valuable. The author emphasizes the need to increase the level of coordination between Ukrainian communities abroad and state institutions of Ukraine in order to develop a systemic image policy that would meet the current challenges of information warfare and geopolitical confrontation. It is proposed to use the results of the study to further study diaspora diplomacy, as well as to develop effective tools to support Ukrainian communities abroad in their activities aimed at promoting a positive image of Ukraine in the world.