On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Ukraine’s First Lady, Olena Zelenska, took part in a special event, “Ukrainian Studies Now: Building Global Alliances,” dedicated to the first anniversary of the Global Coalition of Ukrainian Studies.
“Ukrainian Studies today is not just about the past. It is a way to understand the modern world, its dynamics, and its challenges. Over the past year, we have seen that the demand for studying Ukraine is not decreasing – it is only growing. Knowledge is what helps dispel myths and counter disinformation,” Olena Zelenska emphasized.
During the event, memoranda were signed to mark the joining of Arizona State University, Columbia University, and the Shevchenko Scientific Society in the U.S. to the Global Coalition of Ukrainian Studies. Memoranda were also exchanged with the University of Notre Dame and Manor College.
The First Lady expressed her gratitude to the educational institutions, the Ukrainian Embassy, and everyone involved for their cooperation.
The event also included a panel discussion on “How Academic Diplomacy Changes Global Perceptions of Ukraine,” featuring scholars and experts from the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine.
“In times of fakes and disinformation, in a world flooded with informational ‘fast food,’ it is extremely important to learn facts not only from online clips, but from original sources and scholarly works – carefully, deeply, and thoroughly. Like any knowledge, this enriches all participants. Those who learn more about Ukraine’s path will better understand themselves, their country, and the world,” Olena Zelenska noted.
The Global Coalition of Ukrainian Studies was launched last year with the support of the First Lady of Ukraine. Over the past year, the coalition has brought together around 100 universities worldwide, 15 of which have already become official members. Participants include institutions from Finland, South Africa, the Czech Republic, Austria, Canada, Korea, Italy, Japan, and the United States. The coalition works on creating joint educational courses, supporting academic exchanges, and opening Ukrainian studies centers, shaping a new understanding of Ukraine in the world.