On 21 May, the All-Ukrainian Forum of National Minorities and Indigenous Peoples of Ukraine was held at the M. M. Hryshko National Botanical Garden. The event brought together representatives of state authorities, national communities, Indigenous peoples of Ukraine, the diplomatic corps, and civil society organisations. The forum was organised by the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience.

This year’s forum was held under the symbolic concept of Ukraine as a shared garden, where every culture, tradition, and community has its own roots, yet together they form a unified space. The event featured an interfaith prayer for Ukraine, a tree-planting ceremony, as well as a series of public addresses and discussions on interethnic unity and cultural diversity.

In her address, the Permanent Representative emphasised that Ukrainians are united by a common struggle and a shared aspiration to live in a free state where all are equal and able to preserve their own identity.

“Faith and unity help Ukrainian society endure even the most difficult trials,” said Olha Kuryshko.

In turn, Viktor Yelensky, Head of the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnopolitics and Freedom of Conscience, noted that it is precisely people’s desire to stand together, support one another, and collectively work towards rebuilding the country that shapes the Ukrainian political nation — and that this holds particular value for Ukraine today.

“I am moved by what makes a people a nation — the desire to be together and to rebuild the country. That is worth a great deal.”

Refat Chubarov, Chairman of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People, drew attention to the importance of love for one’s land and responsibility to the state, stressing that these very values help Ukrainian society defend the country.

Following the formal proceedings, the event continued with a concert programme and performances by representatives of national communities, Indigenous peoples, military personnel, youth, volunteers, artists, and athletes.

The forum served as a platform for discussions on interethnic unity, the protection of the rights of Indigenous peoples and national minorities, and the importance of preserving cultural diversity as a cornerstone of Ukrainian statehood.