Ukrainian Non-Governmental Actors in International Dialogue: Challenges, Problems, Solutions
The Lviv Media Forum has prepared a study focused on non-governmental actors involved in international dialogue who advocate for Ukraine’s interests abroad. These include civic activists, journalists, artists, volunteers, academics, business representatives, as well as cultural and civil society institutions for whom international communication has become a core or complementary area of activity.
The study demonstrates that a significant share of this activity is carried out in an unsystematic and uncoordinated manner. Actors often engage in international advocacy intuitively, without perceiving themselves as part of a broader ecosystem of international dialogue. This lack of coordination leads to the duplication of efforts, inconsistent messaging, the use of ineffective or outdated tactics, and a slow response to changes in the international context.
The objectives of the study are to identify and structure the community of international dialogue actors advocating for Ukraine’s interests; to describe the realities and challenges of their work; to identify and analyze their key needs—particularly in the areas of dialogue-building skills, strategic communication, networking, and capacity development; and to formulate recommendations aimed at strengthening their effectiveness.
The findings of the study may be useful for civil society organizations, institutions, and public authorities interested in strengthening Ukraine’s international standing by improving coordination and ensuring the more effective use of resources. In addition, the experience and perspectives of practitioners engaged in civic diplomacy, international communication, and dialogue-building may be valuable for individuals and organizations that have recently joined, or plan to join, international dialogue efforts.
The study was prepared by the Lviv Media Forum in partnership with The ERSTE Foundation.