Statement by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress on the Constitutional Crisis in Ukraine

Canadian Ukrainians are understandably following the events taking place in Ukraine with mixture of intense interest and some concern. Committed to the well-being of all of Ukraine’s citizens and the development of a prosperous and fully democratic Ukrainian society, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress urges all of the political parties and leaders involved to calmly and peacefully resolve the challenges before them and to place the long-term interests of the Ukrainian population before short-term partisan advantage.

Establishing the limits of constitutional government and the prerogatives and powers of different branches of the state are often fraught with emotion, tension and political brinksmanship. However, establishing these limits is a natural progression of Ukraine’s political evolution. Many changes have taken place during the past decade which now require clarification and consensus. While public grandstanding for local political consumption may now be taking place, it is important to note that both sides have taken their complaints to Ukraine’s Constitutional Court for rulings. This is encouraging as it shows a level of maturity and faith in the country’s institutions among the political elites of Ukraine.

In the meantime, Canada and the international community must send an unambiguous signal to Ukrainian politicians of all stripes that they remain committed to ensuring the rule of law in Ukraine and to the continued reform and modernization of the entire Ukrainian state apparatus.

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress welcomes the recent statement of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, Hon. Peter MacKay, for making Canada’s commitment to Ukraine known. UCC will continue to champion close ties between our country and Ukraine and to work with all Ukrainians who strive for a democratically vigorous and economically stable Ukraine.

Ostap Skrypnyk, Executive Director
Ukrainian Canadian Congress
Tel: (204) 942-4627
Fax: (204) 947-3882
ostap.skrypnyk@ucc.ca
www.ucc.ca