Fact Check: Zelenskyy aims to facilitate return of displaced Ukrainians with dual citizenship law.

Fact Check: Zelenskyy Aims to Facilitate Return of Displaced Ukrainians with Dual Citizenship Law

What We Know

In August 2024, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy introduced a bill to the Ukrainian parliament aimed at legalizing multiple citizenships. This legislation was approved by parliament and is intended to strengthen ties with the Ukrainian diaspora, particularly in light of the demographic crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict with Russia, which has led to millions of Ukrainians fleeing the country (source-2). The new law allows Ukrainians to retain their nationality while living abroad, facilitating their potential return to Ukraine. It also encourages individuals of Ukrainian descent to apply for citizenship, thereby enhancing the country’s demographic stability (source-2).

The law simplifies the process for children born to Ukrainian parents abroad and for Ukrainians who acquire additional citizenship through marriage. However, it stipulates that citizens of "aggressor states" and those from countries that do not recognize Ukraine's territorial integrity are excluded from eligibility (source-2).

Analysis

The claim that Zelenskyy aims to facilitate the return of displaced Ukrainians through a dual citizenship law is supported by the legislative actions taken by his administration. The approval of the dual citizenship law is a direct response to the demographic challenges Ukraine faces due to the war, as millions of citizens have left the country (source-2). This legislative change is significant as it not only allows Ukrainians abroad to maintain their citizenship but also encourages their eventual return, thereby addressing the demographic crisis (source-4).

The reliability of the sources cited is high, as they include reputable news outlets and official government statements. The Politico article provides a comprehensive overview of the law's implications and the context surrounding its introduction, while the Kyiv Post article discusses the potential benefits and challenges of the new citizenship framework (source-2, source-4).

However, it is important to note that while the law facilitates dual citizenship, the practical implementation and the list of eligible countries are still pending, which could affect the law's efficacy in achieving its intended goals (source-2).

Conclusion

The claim that Zelenskyy aims to facilitate the return of displaced Ukrainians through a dual citizenship law is True. The newly passed legislation is a strategic move to address demographic challenges and strengthen ties with the Ukrainian diaspora, thereby encouraging their return to Ukraine.

Sources

1. Ukrainian nationality law
2. Ukraine permits dual citizenship to combat demographic issues
3. Zelensky submitted a bill on multiple citizenship: who can ...
4. Ukraine Takes First Steps to Allowing Dual Citizenship, But...
5. Ukraine's parliament passes bill allowing multiple citizenship
6. Why will Ukrainian citizenship be deprived?
7. Multiple citizenship: what does it mean for Ukraine - Заборона
8. Ukraine to finalize dual citizenship law within year