On September 12-13 our representatives participated at the International Conference “Kyiv Between the European and Eurasian Unions: The Impact of Brussels and Moscow on Ukrainian Domestic Affairs”. The International Programs Director Mr. Sergiy Gerasymchuk had a presentation on Ukraine-Romania relations.
Civil society in Ukraine and Romania has a special role in the development of relations between the two countries – such opinion expressed Serhiy Gerasymchuk.
“Most Romanians believe that Ukraine is more corrupt than their own country . Among other stereotypes – general poverty and a large number of oligarchs, no middle class, depending on Russia and the popularity of communist ideology.
There are also peculiar stereotypes according Romania. Thus, Ukrainians think that Romania is a “country of Roma”, a very poor country, and potentially more aggressive. In fact, the situation is quite different. And most politicians know about it, but they are victims of manipulations or manipulate by such image of “enemy at the border“, – said S. Gerasymchuk.
Also media plays its role in spreading of these stereotypes in order to”emphasize conflict issues.
Meanwhile, Romania, like Poland, fully supports Ukraine in its path towards the European Union and, in particular, the signing of the Association Agreement. According to his opinion, the active participation of civil society in both countries and joint cooperation are very important currently. After all, while “politicians and media are looking for sensations,” the third sector should develop, advocate and talk about important aspects of cooperation. NGOs should also pay attention to the work with other groups – business associations and political actors.
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