Odessa has become a venue for a significant discussion on the multifaceted nature of national identity. The Southern Forum of Communities brought together government officials, diplomats, activists, and cultural organizations from all over Ukraine.

The main theme: how to preserve the uniqueness of ethnic, linguistic, religious, and cultural communities while strengthening the unity of Ukrainian society.

“For the sustainable development of our country, both in crisis and peaceful times, it is essential to engage all peoples and nationalities in dialogue about shared values, which will enhance the Ukrainian nation and foster civic identity. We all, regardless of our origins, have chosen the path of defending common values. Representatives of various national communities alongside Ukrainians protect our borders for the right to live in freedom and independence. This is our shared home,” emphasized Natalia Hontarenko, the head of the Department of National and Civic Identity.

Participants discussed:

• Engaging youth in local councils and national politics
• Overcoming linguistic and cultural barriers in communities
• Expanding access to programs from the Ministry of Youth and Sports for community representatives

“We are open to collaboration. We invite youth to join youth councils and platforms for promoting national identity. This is a real opportunity to influence decisions and shape our collective future,” noted Natalia Hontarenko.

The event was initiated by the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience.