UKRAINIAN DIASPORA IN THE UK IN 2014–2026

Abstract

The article presents the results of a study of the evolution of the Ukrainian diaspora in United Kingdom during 2014–2026. The purpose of the article is to provide a comprehensive analysis of changes in the size, social structure, forms of self-organization, cultural life, and directions of socio-political activity of the Ukrainian community in the United Kingdom under the conditions of the Russian-Ukrainian war. The study found that during 2014–2026 the Ukrainian diaspora in the United Kingdom underwent both quantitative and qualitative transformation: from a relatively small historically formed community into one of the most visible new ethnic communities in the country. The growth of the diaspora intensified significantly after 2022 as a result of the large-scale movement of Ukrainian citizens to the United Kingdom within humanitarian support programmes. It was established that the contemporary structure of the Ukrainian diaspora is characterized by a high educational potential, professional diversity, a predominance of women and children among newcomers, as well as the combination of historical organizations with new horizontal forms of civic self-organization. The research demonstrated that traditional institutions of the Ukrainian community coexist with new volunteer, social, and advocacy initiatives that emerged under the influence of war and new migration processes. Particular attention is paid to the fact that during 2014–2026 the Ukrainian diaspora in the United Kingdom performed not only a socio- cultural but also a socio-political function: through the activities of public organizations, public actions, information campaigns, interaction with British political circles, and advocacy initiatives, it contributed to the formation of sustainable support for Ukraine in British society and the political environment. At the same time, cultural projects, educational programmes, festivals, artistic events, and the activities of Ukrainian organizations became important instruments for preserving national identity and promoting Ukraine in the British public space. It is proved that under conditions of Russian aggression the Ukrainian diaspora became an important factor of international solidarity with Ukraine, combining humanitarian assistance, civic mobilization, cultural diplomacy, and public support for Ukrainian citizens in the United Kingdom.